European Winter Aviation Capacity Reaches Record 745 Million Seats Driven by Low-Cost Carrier Expansion

European aviation capacity for winter 2025/26 season reached record 745,308,665 seats across fourth quarter 2025 and first quarter 2026, representing 8.8% increase compared to pre-pandemic winter 2018/19, according to Cirium airline capacity data. Growth primarily generated by low-cost carriers, with Ryanair maintaining position as Europe's largest airline offering 98.3 million seats during two-quarter period, representing 7.1% year-over-year increase.

Wizz Air demonstrated strongest expansion following resolution of A320neo fleet engine issues that previously grounded portions of fleet, boosting overall capacity 26.3% reaching 40.4 million seats whilst focusing particularly on Central and Eastern European markets. Southern and Eastern Europe remained primary capacity growth engines, with Greece, Italy, Portugal, and Spain surpassing pre-pandemic seat counts propelled by strong leisure demand and extended seasonal services.

Western Europe accounted for approximately 72% of continental air traffic, though growth remained modest compared to rapid capacity expansion in Eastern, Central, and South-Eastern Europe. Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, and Balkan countries recorded double-digit passenger gains largely driven by low-cost carrier expansion, rising disposable incomes, and strong visiting friends and relatives travel patterns.

European market entered winter with high load factors, steady leisure demand, and cautious optimism despite macroeconomic and regulatory pressures. Capacity strategically allocated toward profitable routes with clear emphasis on leisure travellers, positioning industry for stable growth phase through early 2026.