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    Low Cost Carrier Market

    ID: MRFR/A&D/7032-CR
    168 Pages
    Sejal Akre
    October 2022

    Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market Research Report Information By Aircraft Type (Narrow-Body and Wide-Body), Operations (Domestic and International), Distribution Channel (Online and Travel Agency), And By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, And Rest Of The World) – Market Forecast Till 2030

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    Low Cost Carrier Market Infographic
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    Low Cost Carrier Market Summary

    As per MRFR analysis, the Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market Size was estimated at 203.16 USD Billion in 2024. The Low-Cost Carrier industry is projected to grow from 236.27 USD Billion in 2025 to 1069.56 USD Billion by 2035, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.3 during the forecast period 2025 - 2035.

    Key Market Trends & Highlights

    The Low-Cost Carrier market is experiencing robust growth driven by technological advancements and increasing demand for affordable travel.

    • The expansion of route networks is a prominent trend among low-cost carriers, particularly in North America, which remains the largest market.
    • Technological integration is enhancing operational efficiency, allowing carriers to optimize costs and improve customer experience.
    • Sustainability initiatives are gaining traction, especially in the Asia-Pacific region, which is recognized as the fastest-growing market for low-cost carriers.
    • The increasing demand for affordable travel and the expansion of ancillary revenue streams are key drivers propelling the growth of narrow-body aircraft in the online segment.

    Market Size & Forecast

    2024 Market Size 203.16 (USD Billion)
    2035 Market Size 1069.56 (USD Billion)
    CAGR (2025 - 2035) 16.3%

    Major Players

    Ryanair (IE), easyJet (GB), Southwest Airlines (US), AirAsia (MY), JetBlue Airways (US), Wizz Air (HU), Spirit Airlines (US), IndiGo (IN), VivaAerobus (MX)

    Low Cost Carrier Market Trends

    The Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market is currently experiencing a dynamic evolution, characterized by a shift in consumer preferences and operational strategies. As travelers increasingly seek affordable options, airlines are adapting their services to meet this demand. This transformation is evident in the expansion of route networks, with carriers exploring underserved destinations to attract a broader customer base. Additionally, the integration of technology into operations is enhancing efficiency, allowing airlines to streamline processes and reduce costs. This trend not only benefits the carriers but also improves the overall travel experience for passengers, who are now enjoying more options at competitive prices. Moreover, sustainability has emerged as a pivotal focus within the Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market. Airlines are recognizing the importance of environmental responsibility and are implementing measures to reduce their carbon footprints. This includes investing in fuel-efficient aircraft and exploring alternative energy sources. As consumers become more environmentally conscious, the ability of carriers to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability may influence purchasing decisions. Thus, the interplay between affordability and environmental stewardship is likely to shape the future landscape of the Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market, presenting both challenges and opportunities for industry players.

    Expansion of Route Networks

    Low-Cost Carriers are increasingly broadening their route offerings to tap into new markets. This strategy aims to connect underserved regions with major hubs, thereby attracting a diverse range of travelers seeking economical options.

    Technological Integration

    The adoption of advanced technologies is transforming operations within the Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market. Innovations in booking systems, customer service, and operational efficiency are enabling airlines to reduce costs and enhance the passenger experience.

    Sustainability Initiatives

    Environmental concerns are prompting Low-Cost Carriers to adopt sustainable practices. Investments in fuel-efficient aircraft and alternative energy sources reflect a growing commitment to reducing carbon emissions, appealing to eco-conscious travelers.

    The Global Low-Cost Carrier market is poised for continued expansion as consumer demand for affordable travel options persists, driven by evolving travel preferences and increased competition among airlines.

    U.S. Department of Transportation

    Low Cost Carrier Market Drivers

    Growing Environmental Awareness

    The Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market is increasingly influenced by growing environmental awareness among consumers. As sustainability becomes a priority for travelers, airlines are compelled to adopt greener practices to attract eco-conscious customers. Initiatives such as fleet modernization, fuel-efficient aircraft, and carbon offset programs are gaining traction. Recent studies indicate that a significant portion of travelers is willing to pay a premium for environmentally friendly options, suggesting that LCCs may need to adapt their business models accordingly. This shift towards sustainability could serve as a key differentiator in the LCC Market, potentially influencing consumer choices and loyalty.

    Emergence of New Market Entrants

    The emergence of new market entrants is reshaping the dynamics of the Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market. New airlines are continually entering the market, driven by the potential for profitability in the low-cost segment. This influx of competition is likely to lead to increased fare wars, benefiting consumers with lower prices and more choices. Additionally, established carriers are responding by enhancing their own low-cost offerings to retain market share. The presence of new players not only stimulates competition but also encourages innovation in service delivery and operational efficiency. As a result, the LCC Market is poised for continued evolution, with new entrants playing a crucial role in its development.

    Expansion of Ancillary Revenue Streams

    The Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market is witnessing a strategic shift towards the expansion of ancillary revenue streams. Airlines are increasingly diversifying their income sources beyond ticket sales, capitalizing on services such as baggage fees, seat selection, and in-flight sales. This approach not only enhances profitability but also allows carriers to maintain low base fares, attracting a broader customer base. Recent reports indicate that ancillary revenues can contribute up to 40 percent of total revenue for some LCCs, underscoring the importance of this strategy. As competition intensifies, the ability to innovate and offer value-added services will likely become a critical driver for growth within the LCC Market.

    Increasing Demand for Affordable Travel

    The Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market is experiencing a notable surge in demand for affordable travel options. As disposable incomes fluctuate, consumers are increasingly seeking budget-friendly alternatives to traditional airlines. This trend is particularly pronounced among younger travelers and families, who prioritize cost over luxury. According to recent data, the LCC segment has captured a significant share of the air travel market, with estimates suggesting that it accounts for over 30 percent of total passenger traffic in various regions. This growing preference for low-cost options is likely to drive further expansion within the LCC Market, as airlines adapt their offerings to meet the evolving needs of price-sensitive consumers.

    Technological Advancements in Operations

    Technological advancements are playing a pivotal role in shaping the Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market. Innovations in operational efficiency, such as automated check-in processes and advanced revenue management systems, are enabling airlines to reduce costs and enhance customer experience. The integration of artificial intelligence and data analytics is also facilitating better decision-making and personalized services. As airlines continue to invest in technology, they are likely to achieve higher operational efficiency, which can translate into lower fares for consumers. This trend is expected to bolster the competitive positioning of LCCs, making them more appealing in the increasingly crowded air travel market.

    Market Segment Insights

    By Aircraft Type: Narrow-body (Largest) vs. Wide-body (Fastest-Growing)

    In the Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) market, narrow-body aircraft dominate due to their efficiency for short to medium-haul flights, leading to a significant market share. This segment is particularly favored by budget travelers and smaller carriers exploring city-to-city connections. Meanwhile, wide-body aircraft, while currently a smaller share of the LCC market, are gaining traction as more airlines seek to expand their routes internationally, particularly on long-haul flights that offer higher passenger capacities. The growth trends in the LCC market illustrate a shift in consumer preferences and operational strategies. The rise of wide-body aircraft reflects an emerging demand for long-distance travel options at lower fares. Factors driving this trend include increasing passenger volumes on international routes and a strategic move by low-cost carriers to tap into underserved markets that require larger aircraft for cost-effective travel. As economic factors and air travel accessibility evolve, both segments face unique opportunities and challenges that will shape their competitive landscape in the coming years.

    Narrow-body (Dominant) vs. Wide-body (Emerging)

    Narrow-body aircraft play a pivotal role in the Low-Cost Carrier market, offering significant advantages in operational efficiency and flexibility for short-haul routes. Their popularity stems from the ability to serve high-demand city pairs with lower operational costs, making them a preferred choice for budget carriers. In contrast, wide-body aircraft are emerging within the LCC market as they allow airlines to offer competitive long-haul services while maintaining cost efficiency. Despite their larger operational footprint and higher maintenance costs, these aircraft enable low-cost airlines to enter international markets, attracting travelers seeking budget-friendly travel options across greater distances. Thus, the segment dynamics indicate a potential evolution in the operational strategies of low-cost carriers, as they explore the opportunities and advantages of wide-body aircraft to capture a broader customer base.

    By Distribution Channel: Online (Largest) vs. Travel Agencies (Fastest-Growing)

    In the Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market, the distribution of sales channels reveals that online platforms dominate with a significant share. This reflects consumer preferences for convenience and the increasing reliance on digital platforms for travel bookings. Online channels have become the go-to choice for most travelers due to their easy access, price comparison features, and user-friendly interfaces. On the other hand, travel agencies have sustained their relevance in the market, particularly among demographics that value personalized service and expert advice, despite a smaller share compared to online platforms.

    Online (Dominant) vs. Travel Agencies (Emerging)

    Online distribution channels have solidified their position as the dominant choice in the Low-Cost Carrier market, driven by the convenience of booking and the ability to easily compare fares. These platforms cater effectively to tech-savvy consumers who prefer self-service options and instant confirmations. Conversely, travel agencies are emerging as a beneficial alternative, particularly for travelers seeking personalized experiences such as tailored itineraries and dedicated support. While online options are growing significantly in market share, travel agencies capture a unique market segment that prioritizes professional guidance, generating a complementary dynamic within the overall distribution landscape.

    By Operations: Domestic (Largest) vs. International (Fastest-Growing)

    In the Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market, the domestic operations segment holds the largest market share, driven by the increasing demand for affordable travel solutions within countries. Domestic flights cater to a broad customer base, including business travelers and vacationers, leading to a steady stream of passengers and revenue generation. On the other hand, the international operations segment is emerging as the fastest-growing segment, capitalizing on the expanding tourism industry and the rising popularity of low-cost travel options among international travelers.

    Domestic (Dominant) vs. International (Emerging)

    Domestic operations in the Low-Cost Carrier market are characterized by their widespread network and high-frequency flights, making them the dominant player in the segment. These operations typically focus on regional or national routes that connect major cities and tourist destinations, offering competitive pricing to attract budget-conscious travelers. Meanwhile, international operations are witnessing rapid growth as LCCs extend their reach beyond national borders, appealing to cost-sensitive customers looking for less expensive flying options. These emerging international carriers are known for their agile business models and innovative service offerings that cater to the global market, positioning them as a strong competitor against traditional airlines.

    Get more detailed insights about Low Cost Carrier Market

    Regional Insights

    By Region, the study provides market insights for Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and the Rest of the World. North America Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market accounted for USD 0.88 billion in 2022 and is expected to exhibit a significant CAGR growth during the study period. This is attributed to the growing number of airlines focusing on offering customers convenience and significantly expanding their airline routes, which is helping them gain market share. By expanding geographically and increasing sales, aircraft manufacturers are moving into the area to increase market shares.

    For instance, Lockheed Martin expanded its North American sales network.

    Further, the major countries studied in the market report for Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) are The U.S., Canada, Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Spain, China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil.

    Figure 3:  LOW-COST CARRIER (LCC) MARKET SHARE BY REGION 2022 (%)LOW-COST CARRIER (LCC) MARKET SHARE BY REGION 2022 Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, Market Research Future Database and Analyst Review

    Europe's Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market accounts for the second-largest market share. Over the anticipated timeframe, the prominence of low-cost carrier (LCC) will grow, and regional connectivity will also expand. Rising airline frequencies and air traffic drive the region's demand for new aircraft. Additionally, the mushrooming MRO services will significantly influence the industry's growth throughout the study. Expanding their production facilities is another priority for manufacturers as they try to catch up on their backlog of previous orders. To produce the A320 product line, for instance, Airbus opened its fourth production line in Hamburg, Germany, in June 2018.

    Until the middle of 2019, the company increased production of its single-aisle aircraft by 60 per month thanks to this strategy. Further, the Germany Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market held the largest market share, and the UK Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market was the fastest-growing market in the European region.

    The Asia-Pacific Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR from 2022 to 2030. This is because increased aircraft deliveries over the study timeframe will be facilitated by expanding production facilities. For instance, Air China received the first Boeing 737 MAX airliner in December 2018. The growth of regional air connectivity and the opening new air routes are favorably impacting market demand. For instance, to strengthen the regional connection, Japan Airlines began operating new flights in February 2019 between Tokyo Haneda (HND) and Manila using the Boeing 737-800.

    Moreover, China Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market held the largest market share, and the India Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market was the fastest-growing market in the Asia-Pacific region

    Key Players and Competitive Insights

    Major market players are spending much money on R&D to increase their product lines, which will help the Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market grow even more. Market participants are also taking various strategic initiatives to grow their worldwide footprint, with key market developments such as new product launches, contractual agreements, mergers and acquisitions, increased investments, and collaboration with other organizations. Competitors in the Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) industry must offer cost-effective items to expand and survive in an increasingly competitive and rising market environment.

    One of the primary business strategies manufacturers adopt in the Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) industry to benefit clients and expand the market sector is manufacturing locally to reduce operating costs. In recent years, Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) industry has provided medicine with some of the most significant benefits. In the Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market, major players such as EasyJet Airline Company Limited (UK), AirAsia Berhad (Malaysia), JetBlue Airways Corporation (US), IndiGo (India), Ryanair DAC (Ireland), Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA (Norway), and others, are working on expanding the market demand by investing in research and development activities.

    EasyJet Airline Company Limited (UK) has established itself as the top short-haul airline in Europe over the past 25 years. We have a solid foundation from which to continue our upward trajectory. More than any other airline, we connect passengers from over 30 countries via more than 100 of Europe's most popular routes. EasyJet has a robust network of first- and second-place spots in major airports that have proven to be among the highest-yielding in the industry. This makes it easy for easyJet to make effective network decisions focusing on maximizing returns.

    To ensure that capacity is deployed in the markets with the highest demand and returns, easyJet continues to optimize its network.

    Also, SpiceJet Limited (India) The goal of SpiceJet is to become the most popular low-cost carrier (LCC) in India by providing price-conscious customers with the lowest airfares and the best customer value. We want to make everyone's dream of flying come true! India's economy and business are expanding, causing a rise in the population's propensity to travel. Everybody needs to save time and money when traveling, as more and more Indians do so for both business and pleasure. The goal of SpiceJet is to resolve this and make flying accessible to all people.

    SpiceJet provides reasonable fares and is significantly less expensive than most airlines, thanks to a dynamic fare structure.

    Key Companies in the Low Cost Carrier Market market include

    Industry Developments

    • Q1 2025: Indigo has 10% of its fleet inactive as of February 2025 Indigo, one of the world's largest low-cost carriers, reported that 10% of its fleet was inactive in early 2025, reflecting ongoing operational and maintenance challenges in the LCC sector.
    • Q1 2025: Turkish Airlines has 11% of its fleet inactive as of February 2025 Turkish Airlines, which operates a significant low-cost carrier division, reported 11% of its fleet inactive in Q1 2025, highlighting capacity discipline and maintenance issues affecting LCCs.
    • Q1 2025: Africa leads global LCC capacity growth in Q1 2025 Africa experienced the highest LCC capacity growth globally in Q1 2025, up 7.0% compared to 2024, signaling increased investment and expansion by low-cost carriers in the region.
    • Q1 2025: 13 airlines report 10% or more of their fleet inactive in early 2025 A total of 13 airlines, including major LCCs, reported that at least 10% of their fleets were inactive in Q1 2025, due to maintenance, repair, or operational constraints.
    • Q1 2025: Daemyung Sono Group acquires management control of T'way Air In January 2025, South Korea's Daemyung Sono Group acquired management control of low-cost carrier T'way Air to improve the airline's financial health and operational performance.
    • Q1 2025: Air India Express adds 22 international city pair routes in 2024 Tata Group-owned Air India Express expanded its international network by adding 22 new city pair routes in 2024, including the launch of services to Phuket, strengthening its Southeast Asian presence.

    Future Outlook

    Low Cost Carrier Market Future Outlook

    The Low-Cost Carrier market is projected to grow at a 16.3% CAGR from 2024 to 2035, driven by increased demand for affordable travel and technological advancements.

    New opportunities lie in:

    • Expansion into underserved regional markets
    • Partnerships with local tourism boards for package deals
    • Implementation of AI-driven customer service solutions

    By 2035, the LCC market is expected to solidify its position as a dominant force in global aviation.

    Market Segmentation

    Low Cost Carrier Market Operations Outlook

    • Domestic
    • International

    Low Cost Carrier Market Aircraft Type Outlook

    • Narrow-body
    • Wide-body

    Low Cost Carrier Market Distribution Channel Outlook

    • Online
    • Travel agencies

    Report Scope

    MARKET SIZE 2024203.16(USD Billion)
    MARKET SIZE 2025236.27(USD Billion)
    MARKET SIZE 20351069.56(USD Billion)
    COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR)16.3% (2024 - 2035)
    REPORT COVERAGERevenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
    BASE YEAR2024
    Market Forecast Period2025 - 2035
    Historical Data2019 - 2024
    Market Forecast UnitsUSD Billion
    Key Companies ProfiledMarket analysis in progress
    Segments CoveredMarket segmentation analysis in progress
    Key Market OpportunitiesIntegration of advanced digital platforms enhances customer engagement in the Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market.
    Key Market DynamicsIntensifying competition among low-cost carriers drives innovation and consumer-centric strategies in air travel.
    Countries CoveredNorth America, Europe, APAC, South America, MEA

    Market Highlights

    Author
    Sejal Akre
    Senior Research Analyst

    She has over 5 years of rich experience, in market research and consulting providing valuable market insights to client. Hands on expertise in management consulting, and extensive knowledge in domain including ICT, Automotive & Transportation and Aerospace & Defense. She is skilled in Go-to market strategy, industry analysis, market sizing, in depth company profiling, competitive intelligence & benchmarking and value chain amongst others.

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    FAQs

    How much is the Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market?

    The Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market size was valued at USD 174.6826 Billion in 2023.

    What is the growth rate of the Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market?

    The market for Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) is projected to grow at a CAGR of 16.30% during the forecast period, 2024-2030.

    Which region held the largest market share in the Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market?

    North America had the largest share of the market for Low-Cost Carrier (LCC)

    Who are the key players in the Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market?

    The key players in the Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) market are EasyJet Airline Company Limited (UK), AirAsia Berhad (Malaysia), and JetBlue Airways Corporation (US).

    Which Aircraft type led the Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market?

    The Narrow-body Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) category dominated the market in 2022.

    Which operations had the largest market share in the Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) Market?

    The domestic operations had the largest share of the market for Low-Cost Carrier (LCC).

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