Expedia: Air Travel is Back, Gen Z and Millennials More Likely to Fly

Over half (51 percent) of consumers are planning to take a flight in the next 12 months, making airplanes the most popular mode of transportation after traveling by car, according to Expedia Group Media Solutions’ recently released 2023 Traveler Value Index.

The index, which saw 11,000 consumers and 1,100 travel professionals participating in the research, provides insights for airlines on what travelers are looking for in 2023 and how it aligns or doesn’t align with industry perceptions.

According to the data, younger generations, such as Gen Z and millennials, are even more likely to fly in 2023, with almost 60 percent planning air travel this year.

The return of international and business travel is also expected to positively impact air travel.

The research indicates that half of consumers are planning on international travel this year, leading to a potential growth in long-haul flights. Additionally, with a third of travelers planning business trips, mid-week flights could also see an increase.

Furthermore, 43 percent of consumers interviewed said that their budget for the next 12 months will be higher than last year.

On the other hand, air travel professionals overestimated this increase the most, with 70 percent predicting an increase which could lead to necessary adjustments in their expectations for consumer travel spending in 2023.

When it comes to booking air travel, price is considered the most important factor for consumers. Atypical, low pricing is the top priority for consumers (27 percent), followed by the ability to receive a full refund on cancelled bookings (20 percent).

Expedia’s index also underlines how mobile has become increasingly important for booking travel.

Source: Expedia Group Media Solutions.

Findings showed that there was a 20 percent increase in mobile app and browser bookings for flights in 2022 compared to the previous year, and this trend is expected to continue in 2023. Mobile is also considered a key platform for travel inspiration before booking.

Sustainability proves to be a priority for the travel industry in 2023, with one in five industry professionals saying it will be their top investment priority.

Air industry professionals are even more likely to provide sustainability information to consumers, with 49 percent saying they will do so.

Finally, the air industry is also committed to accessibility and inclusivity, with 71 percent of air professionals making changes to ensure their services are more inclusive and accessible.