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Low-Cost Carrier Expert Commentary: Operational Excellence – The Best Low-Cost Carriers Setting New Standards  


In 2024, several Low-Cost Carriers (LCCs) have set a benchmark for operational excellence.

Isaac Pato
Isaac Pato
Senior Data Analyst
Cirium

Efficiency and reliability are cornerstones of successful air travel, and in 2024, several Low-Cost Carriers (LCCs) have set a benchmark for operational excellence. Leading the charge is Iberia Express (I2) of Spain, showcasing a stellar 84.69% on-time performance (OTP) across 44,140 annual flights. Close on its heels is Brazil’s Gol (G3) with an OTP of 84.09% from an impressive total of 211,944 flights. Third on the list is Azul (AD), achieving an OTP of 82.42% for its 321,996 flights. These achievements not only highlight the efficiency of the airlines but also reflect their significant roles in their respective markets.


Iberia Express (Spain): Driving Efficiency in European Travel

Iberia Express stands out as a model of punctuality and operational discipline in Europe. A subsidiary of Iberia, this airline connects passengers across major European destinations at affordable prices without compromising performance.

This achievement underscores the country’s emphasis on modernizing its aviation infrastructure and meeting the high expectations of international travelers. For business and leisure passengers alike, Iberia Express’s operational reliability is a testament to Spain’s focus on providing seamless short-haul services.

Gol (Brazil): Championing Growth in South America’s Aviation Market

Gol Linhas Aéreas, boasting an 84.09% OTP, demonstrates exemplary operational management in one of South America’s most dynamic and competitive aviation sectors. Gol’s success is symbolic of Brazil’s growing stature in global aviation, as the country invests heavily in modernizing airports and routes within and beyond South America.

This consistency not only strengthens customer trust but also positions Brazil as a leader in aviation mobility across the region.

Azul (Brazil): Excelling in High-Volume Operations

Azul Linhas Aéreas has demonstrated remarkable efficiency, achieving an OTP of 82.42% across an extraordinary 321,996 flight operations. As one of Brazil’s most prominent carriers, Azul has mastered the art of balancing high operational demand with reliability. Its commitment to punctuality cements its position as a cornerstone of Brazil’s aviation industry, ensuring passengers enjoy smooth, on-time journeys despite the challenges of managing such a vast network. Azul’s achievements reflect the growing sophistication of South America’s aviation infrastructure.

These carriers—Spain’s Iberia Express and Brazil’s Gol and Azul—have redefined the expectations for low-cost travel by prioritizing operational excellence. Their commitment to efficiency proves that affordability doesn’t have to come at the expense of reliability, enhancing customer confidence in LCC services. Congratulations to these airlines for setting new standards in the aviation industry and for continuing to deliver outstanding performance!

Report highlights

  • Delta Air Lines Secures Cirium’s Platinum Award for Operational Excellence for Fourth Year Running 
  • Aeromexico Recognized as the Most On-Time Airline in the Global Category 
  • Regional Leaders Announced: Delta Air Lines, Copa Airlines, Iberia Express, Japan Airlines, and FlySafair Take Top Honors 
  • Bogotá El Dorado International Airport Earns Cirium’s Inaugural Airport Platinum Award 
  • Riyadh King Khalid International Airport Named Most On-Time Global Airport for 2024

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