Why the Arctic Is This Winter’s Hottest New Market for European Airlines

Hundreds of new flights will serve the European Arctic region this year, collectively offering tens of thousands of additional seats. In recent weeks, major airlines from across the continent have announced a flurry of routes to destinations deep within the Arctic Circle. 

Notably, many of the services will be operated for the very first time, suggesting a shift in travel demand and broader consumer behaviors. 

As Skift reported earlier this week, Scandinavian countries are becoming more popular as the effects of climate change take hold. Higher average temperatures in traditional ski areas such as the French and Swiss Alps are a key factor. 

According to a report published by the European Tourism Commission, the search for more reliable weather conditions is driving many winter sports enthusiasts further north.

The demand for vacations away from the crowds has also been a broader post-pandemic shift. In 2022, Skift highlighted the ‘rapid ruralization of travel’ as one of its Megatrends, countering over-tourism in more established destinations.  

Here is just a selection of the major new air routes operating into and around the region this coming winter:

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