Attenuating disruptive effects of bad weather on air travel – minimizing stranded travelers

Abstract

In an EU study named Management of Weather Events in the Transport System (MOWE-IT) is assessed how large disruptions of air transport, caused by bad weather, can be better accommodated by improved cooperation across transport systems. Assessed substitution options are, retention of passengers and freight at their origin, rerouting within air travel, transfer of passengers to nearby airports, modal switch to high speed rail, and trucking (air cargo) for a selection of major hubs in Europe. The presentation will discuss the results regarding the regulatory and economic feasibility to accommodate travelers stranded in major hubs via alternative channels so as to reduce disruptive effects. The presentation will also illustrate how the realization of benefits of improved weather service provision hinges on regulatory changes and investments. Finally, the presentation will review under what conditions improvements in the resilience of air transport can be expected to produce net benefits.