The transatlantic air market between the US and London is booming, with over 14 million passengers flying between the two regions in the first nine months of 2024. The demand is clear, with airlines across the world competing to offer the best services and carry the most passengers.
British Airways leads the pack
British Airways, the flag carrier of the UK, led the pack, transporting 5.77 million passengers. This accounts for nearly 40% of the total passenger traffic on this route. With 6.75 million seats available, the airline filled 85.31% of them, showing consistent demand for its services. Its most popular routes were from Heathrow to New York (JFK), Los Angeles, and Miami.
American Airlines and United Airlines Follow Suit
American Airlines also held a strong position, carrying 2.75 million passengers between London and the US. June was its busiest month, with a seat occupancy rate of 88%. However, February was a quiet month, with only 55.56% of its seats filled.
United Airlines, on the other hand, flew over 1.7 million passengers. The airline’s performance peaked in July, when it achieved an 88.65% load factor, filling nearly nine out of ten seats. However, February saw its lowest demand, with just 56.45% of seats occupied.
JetBlue’s Expansion
JetBlue, a newer player in the market since its 2021 launch, showed promising growth. The airline carried 281,053 passengers, with the best month being June, with 86.72% of its seats filled. JetBlue’s route network includes flights from JFK to both Heathrow and Gatwick, as well as Boston to Heathrow.
Delta Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic’s Contribution
Delta Air Lines crossed the one million mark in passengers, with August being its strongest month (89.98% seat occupancy). Its best-performing route was from JFK to Gatwick.
Virgin Atlantic carried more than 2.4 million passengers, with the highest load factor seen in July, at 85.10%. Despite a lower 60.50% load factor in February, the airline maintained a steady presence on routes like London (Heathrow) to New York (JFK) and Los Angeles.
Overall, these six airlines led the charge, demonstrating the strength and growth of the US-London route. With millions of seats filled and robust demand, this route remains one of the busiest and most competitive in the world.
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