Areas of Air Transport Forecasting

Long-term forecasts of passenger numbers and flight routes are essential for infrastructure projects such as airport expansions and transport connections. They also support approval processes and investment decisions. DLR analyses future passenger volumens and flight connections for individual airports using a standardised forecasting method.

By analysing global economic data and IATA statistics, DLR forecasts future cargo volumes on specific routes up to the year 2050. Alternative transport methods are also considered to assess intermodal freight transport solutions.

A specialised tool developed by DLR generates flight schedules for individual airports worldwide. These forecasts include time-of-day data and aircraft types to enable more accurate air traffic planning and improved environmental impact assessments.

Analysing future passenger and cargo volumes, along with planned aircraft production, enables predictions on global fleet development. This forecast directly impacts flight movements, capacity bottlenecks, fuel consumption, and emissions.

The DLR-developed Capacity Utilisation Index (CUI) assesses runway usage at airports worldwide. This allows for a consistent analysis of current and future capacity bottlenecks.

Beyond individual airport assessments, DLR analyses global air traffic capacities. Future demand is compared with existing infrastructure to identify potential bottlenecks or growth opportunities at an early stage.

By analysing global developments, high-growth markets can be identified—both geographically and in terms of emerging aircraft types or innovative propulsion technologies, such as hydrogen and electric aircraft.