Accessible tourism-Budget Airlines : How Aviation Shapes Destination Appeal and Traveler Decisions

Abstract

This thesis investigates tourist behaviour in relation to budget airlines and examines how low-cost carriers influence destination appeal. The idea for this research emerged from a personal interest in aviation combined with a curiosity about tourism behaviours and evolving travel trends. In recent years, budget airlines have played a significant role in reshaping travel patterns by increasing accessibility, reducing travel costs, and expanding destination choices for tourists.

The main objective of this study is to analyse how tourists perceive budget airlines and how these perceptions affect their destination selection and travel decisions. The research adopts a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative data collected through surveys with qualitative insights to better understand traveller motivations, preferences, and behavioural patterns. Key factors such as price sensitivity, flight frequency, service expectations, and destination attractiveness are explored.

The findings aim to provide valuable insights for airline companies, tourism stakeholders, and destination management organizations by highlighting behavioural trends and decision-making processes associated with low-cost air travel. Understanding these patterns can support improved service design, marketing strategies, and policy decisions, ultimately contributing to increased competitiveness, customer satisfaction, and profitability within the tourism and aviation sectors