Unbeatable Deals on Flights to Europe This Winter
Are you ready to escape the cold and explore the charms of Europe without breaking the bank? This winter, flights from the U.S. to Europe are at their lowest prices in three years, making it an ideal time to plan your trip.
Airlines Struggle to Fill Seats
According to flight-tracking company Hopper, “good deal” fares across the Atlantic to Europe are averaging $578 in November, a significant drop from $619 last year. This decline is attributed to the traditionally slow late-fall and winter months, making it challenging for airlines to fill seats.
Post-Pandemic Travel Demand Shift
In the aftermath of the pandemic, airlines rushed to add seats between the U.S. and Europe to cater to the surge in travel demand. However, this buildup was not limited to peak months, as travelers began to explore shoulder-season destinations to escape scorching summer temperatures and crowds.
Airline Capacity and Demand
Airline capacity between the U.S. and Europe in the fourth quarter is marginally lower than last year, but it’s higher than in 2019 and nearly double the amount in the same period of 2021, according to Cirium. This increased capacity, combined with weaker demand, has led to lower fares.
Discounts Galore
Airlines typically discount flights during the offseason, but this year, they’re even cheaper. “That’s the tell,” said Scott Keyes, founder of travel app Going. “When they’re having to go out and discount, they’re having to juice the demand.” This means travelers can snag unbeatable deals on flights to Europe.
New Destinations on the Horizon
To keep travelers engaged and interested in European vacations, airlines are exploring new destinations. United Airlines, for instance, plans to expand its schedule next year to off-the-beaten-path destinations like Greenland and Mongolia. This shift in focus will provide travelers with fresh options and help airlines stay profitable.
Take Advantage of Low Fares
With fares averaging $558 in January 2025, now is the perfect time to plan your European getaway. As Hayley Berg, Hopper’s lead economist, predicts, “I expect airfare [to Europe] to be low into next year.” Don’t miss out on this opportunity to explore the wonders of Europe at an affordable price.
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