Airlines are benefiting from unexpected pent-up demand and changes in flying habits. Picture: BLOOMBERG
One of the biggest drivers of the new flying patterns is the ability to work either remotely or from the office. Business and leisure travel are being combined in a new trend that airlines call hybrid work. Customers are extending their business trips to add on a few days of sightseeing. They also have the flexibility to travel more often and to vary their schedules; they can fly during the week and work a couple of days from an Airbnb while the family hits the beach or the slopes.
Domestic flying was the first segment to rebound, and that continues to be strong. Travel to Europe is now leading the recovery of international travel, and Asia is picking up as countries such as Japan begin to reopen.