One way bookings recover faster than round trip bookings, indicating reduced consumer confidence in travel
- Before the COVID-19 crisis dramatically reduced air travel, 55% of all airline bookings were round trip bookings.
- During the low point of the COVID crisis, one way bookings out paced round trip bookings 60% to 40% for the first time in the market.
- The initial growth of one way bookings is likely due to traveler uncertainty of how long their trip would be, and buying a one way flight for each leg of their trip to provide them with increased flexibility if their plans changed.
- Increased round trip bookings suggest travelers are feeling more confidence in their flights to commit to their travel plans in advance.