Flight Centre corporate data reveals cost of outbound airfares on the decline

Australian Flag With Airplane
Edited by Travel Weekly


New data from Flight Centre Travel Group’s corporate divisions, FCM Travel and Corporate Traveller, shows a notable decrease in international outbound Economy airfares.

Average prices dropped by 5-10 per cent in the latest quarter (July-September 2024 compared to the same period in 2023), equating to savings of over $100 each way.

Business Class fares followed suit, with a 4 per cent reduction.

Flight Centre Corporate’s analysis highlighted significant fare reductions for flights into key destinations like Qatar, the UAE, and Europe.

Global COO, Melissa Elf, attributed the price drops to increased capacity and competition among international carriers operating from Australia.

“We’ve seen consistent drops in international fares over the past year, indicating stability in the travel sector,” she said. “The biggest decreases this quarter were on routes to the UAE, Qatar, France, the UK, and Italy—crucial hubs for corporate travellers.”

The timing of this data coincides with Australia’s recent Free Trade Agreement with the UAE, further cementing economic ties. “This is great news for business and travellers alike, especially given the importance of our trade relationship with the UAE,” Elf continued.

Despite the positive trend in international fares, domestic airfares saw a slight increase of 3-5 per cent due to Rex Airlines exiting major routes and a surge in demand during the September holidays. However, future relief is expected as Virgin Australia and Qatar’s partnership could introduce new routes from mid-2025, adding more competition to both international and domestic markets.

“Announcements like the Virgin-Qatar deal are what the industry needs to keep fares down and expand travel options for Australians,” Elf said.

As businesses continue to prioritize corporate travel, Flight Centre’s customers report that 40 per cent plan to increase travel this financial year, with 42 per cent intending to expand their travel budgets.

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