Analyzing global passenger flows based on choice modeling in the air transportation system

Abstract

Airline passenger decisions determine operation of airlines and aircraft. Therefore, global air transport models need to consider these decisions. Thereby, we develop a discrete choice model for passenger decisions describing global passenger flows based on different parameters. The model distinguishes between passenger itineraries defined by attributes like ticket price, travel time and number of transfers. Additional attributes are added gradually. It is calibrated using schedule and passenger demand data. Hence, based on topological structures of the air transport system, global passenger flows and elasticities can be identified. Additionally, we provide quantified results describing the elasticity of several types of attributes, the values of travel time, the quality of travel and compare them for different regions, itineraries and travel types.