Based on the latest Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Consumer Survey, we provide a detailed look at who is flying, along with a guide to flying smarter, tailoring your journey, and feeling confident every step of the way.

The state of air travel: Flight behaviour, frequency, and affordability

Overall passenger satisfaction across the industry has reached an all-time high, a trend that strongly aligns with easyJet's own improving Customer Satisfaction (CSAT) scores.

Record flying rates

Flying rates in the UK in 2025 continued a trend of record highs; in fact, the proportion of consumers taking to the skies matched the peak levels observed in the previous year. Not only are people flying, but they are also flying frequently. The average number of trips per traveller has increased slightly to 3.4 trips per year. While half of all passengers took one or two trips, the other half embarked on three or more journeys over the last 12 months.

Frequent flyers skew younger

Interestingly, younger generations are leading this momentum. Among 18-to-34-year-olds, 72% have flown in the last year, and 16% of this demographic took over five trips. Nearly a third of all consumers (31%) plan to fly even more in 2026. Again, younger travellers are driving this growth, with nearly half (47%) of 18-to-34-year-olds planning to increase their flight frequency.

Low-cost airlines more important than ever

For those who have not flown recently, budgetary constraints remain the most frequently cited barrier, highlighting why cost-effective travel options are more important than ever. However, easyJet’s long-standing operational model directly combats this barrier. Data from easyJet's 30-year impact report reveals that while the cost of everyday goods like food and housing has skyrocketed since 1995, easyJet fares have dropped by over 50% in real terms. By relentlessly focusing on efficiency, the airline has successfully democratised travel, ensuring that flying remains highly accessible.

2. Build the Journey (And Avoid Unnecessary Costs)

One of the best ways to keep flights affordable is the "unbundled" fare model, which allows travellers to start with a great base price and only add the extras they need. This transparent, build-your-own approach is central to how airlines like easyJet operate, giving passengers total control over their travel budget.

However, because fare types vary, it is always helpful for passengers to double-check what is included in a specific booking before heading to the airport. The CAA report highlights that about a quarter of passengers are sometimes surprised by extra costs at the end of their booking or at the airport.

Savvy Traveler Tip: The easiest way to keep a journey seamless and cost-effective is to download the airline's mobile app. Passengers can manage their booking, check in for free, and download a digital boarding pass straight to their phone.

3. Top Ways UK Passengers Are Saving Money

For those looking for clever ways to stretch a travel budget, they are not alone. The CAA report found that over half of passengers (54%) report taking specific actions to save money on their most recent flight. Here are the top three strategies everyday flyers are using to get the best value:

• Flexibility with Timings:

  22% of passengers are choosing less convenient flight times to secure a cheaper fare.

• Traveling Light:

  21% of travellers are opting to fly with hand luggage only, rather than checking a bag.

• Random Seating:

  15% of flyers are saving money by not booking a specific seat beside their travel companions.

4. Navigating Flight Disruptions

While airlines like easyJet always aim to get passengers to their destinations perfectly on time, occasional travel disruptions do happen. Over the past year, 55% of passengers experienced some form of travel problem. Encouragingly, the CAA data indicates that overall flight disruption is declining, a trend that is directly aligned with easyJet’s own strong operational performance.

During a disruption, getting the right information quickly is crucial, yet 54% of passengers reported not being informed of their rights by the airport or airline at the time. It is vital that travellers are fully empowered with the facts. Often, there is confusion around the exact terms used during disruptions. Here is a quick, helpful breakdown:

• Refund: This applies if a flight is cancelled or significantly delayed, and the passenger decides not to travel on that booking.

• Reimbursement: This covers reasonable out-of-pocket expenses—like meals, necessary hotel accommodation, or transport—that a passenger may need to pay for while waiting for a delayed flight.

• Compensation: This is a set financial amount claimable when a flight is delayed or cancelled due to reasons within the airline's direct control.

Savvy Traveler Tip: Keeping the airline app updated and notifications turned on is highly recommended. The app is often the fastest way to get real-time updates, rebook flights, or find information on requesting reimbursements.

5. Accessible Air Travel for Everyone

Everyone deserves to enjoy the magic of travel. While airports can sometimes be large and busy, assistance is always available. Currently, 58% of disabled consumers report difficulty accessing or using airports and flying.

However, easyJet is successfully bucking this industry trend. While the wider sector sees lower satisfaction scores for vulnerable passengers, easyJet continues to invest heavily in its Special Assistance services, ensuring that those who need extra help receive it seamlessly and report highly positive experiences.

Research shows that 15% of all passengers anticipate needing specific assistance from the airport or airline if they travel in the future. The most common requests for help include:

• Assistance with walking long distances or standing in queues (42%).

• Help with carrying or managing luggage (42%).

• Support in understanding airport instructions or procedures (18%).

Savvy Traveler Tip: For those who require a little extra help navigating the airport, from check-in to boarding, making sure to request Special Assistance through the booking platform at least 48 hours before flying is key. Airline teams are always there to help make the journey comfortable.