The cost of domestic flights during holidays
During the Christmas period, domestic flight prices in Italy increase significantly, making it difficult for many families to return home. According to a survey conducted by AltroConsumo, the average cost of a flight from Milan to Catania can reach 389 euros, an increase of 1,031% compared to 34 euros in mid-January. This scenario highlights how traveling to the islands and regions of Southern Italy has become particularly onerous, with an average cost for a family of three that can exceed 1,284 euros during
the holidays.
Comparison with international flights
In stark contrast, flights to European capitals are decidedly cheaper. For example, a flight from Rome to London costs only 92 euros, while a flight to Barcelona costs 110 euros. These prices are significantly lower than those of domestic flights, where the average cost to reach a European capital is 149 euros, compared to 246 euros for domestic flights. This price gap, which reaches up to 65%, raises questions about the pricing policies of Italian airlines, especially during holidays
.
The reasons for the increases
The reasons for these disproportionate increases can be attributed to several factors, including the increased demand for flights during the holidays and the lack of transportation alternatives. The most expensive routes, such as Milan-Palermo and Milan-Bari, show significant increases compared to the low season. In addition, the scarcity of direct connections to some destinations helps to increase prices. AltroConsumo has already reported these anomalies to the Antitrust, highlighting how the increases are excessive and unjustified.
The comparison with trains
A comparative analysis between flights and trains reveals that railway costs also increase during holidays, but to a different extent. For example, the price of a ticket from Milan to Naples can reach 172 euros during holidays, compared to 76 euros in low season. However, the train often proves to be cheaper than the plane, as in the case of the Milan-Rome route, where the flight costs 299 euros against 129 euros for the train. This suggests that, despite the price increases, the train could represent a cheaper alternative for many travelers
.