UK air passengers who did not experience travel disruptions 2019-2023

The number of air passengers in the United Kingdom who did not experience any travel disruptions or problems has increased from 38 percent in 2022 to 42 percent in 2023. UK airports and airlines have been dealing with staff shortages alongside other issues that have led to crowding at airports, delays and cancellations of flights, and problems with baggage handling, significantly impacting travelers' experience of flying.

Number of complaints growing

The increasing disruption to passengers' travel is driving up the number of complaints against UK airlines. In Q3 of 2023, the UK's Civil Aviation Authority registered roughly 15,7000 complaints against airlines, a 39 percent more than the previous quarter. Most of these complaints pertain to cancellations, delays, or denied boarding but a small but growing number concern the rights of disabled passengers and those with reduced mobility.

Rising prices and more delays

While passengers have been experiencing more travel disruptions and delays, they are also facing rapidly rising airfares. The consumer price index for air travel increased by 16 percent between 2022 and 2023. The mismatch between the air travel experience and its cost is affecting consumers' satisfaction with the value for money of flying. This figure was down to 67 percent in 2023, compared to 76 or 77 percent in previous years.