How European budget airlines maintain ultra-low fares

Ryanair's extensive network across Europe and Northern Africa is another factor contributing to its success. The airline operates with quick turnarounds, aiming for a 25-minute window between landing and takeoff to maximize daily flights. They avoid conventional airports with high fees, opting instead for less expensive alternatives like Frankfurt Hahn or Stockholm Skavsta.

European budget airlines operate on a point-to-point model rather than the hub-and-spoke system used by legacy carriers such as British Airways or Lufthansa. This model allows them to offer direct flights between various destinations without requiring connections through major hubs like London Heathrow.

The point-to-point network offers several advantages: it minimizes delays, requires no coordination for connecting flights, enables new routes creation, and generates demand on underserved city pairs.

This business model has made air travel more accessible by reducing costs while maintaining convenience for passengers. It mirrors similar strategies used by U.S.-based airlines like Frontier Airlines and Southwest Airlines.

Budget airlines have also provided essential services to smaller towns and cities in Europe. When Malév Hungarian Airlines ceased operations, Ryanair and WizzAir quickly filled the gap with additional routes from Budapest.

Overall, European budget airlines continue to revolutionize air travel by focusing on reduced operating costs while providing affordable options for consumers across the continent.