In a significant shake-up of Denmark’s aviation sector, Ryanair has decided to cease all operations at Billund Lufthavn from April 1, citing Denmark’s new aviation tax as a detrimental factor. The low-cost airline’s departure leaves a void of 24 routes, accounting for nearly a third of Billund’s passenger traffic in 2023.
New airlines step in to fill the void
Since Ryanair’s announcement, Billund Lufthavn has been actively working to replace the lost routes. Norwegian Air has already taken over some, and now, additional routes have been confirmed. According to Jesper Klausholm, Billund Lufthavn’s Director of Route Development, Communication, and Marketing, at least five new routes are in place, with more expected in the coming weeks.
“We are expecting more good news very soon. Several new routes will be announced in the next few weeks,” Klausholm told DR.
Ownership structure of Billund Lufthavn
Billund Lufthavn is partially owned by multiple municipalities in Denmark:
- Vejle Kommune: 34.3%
- Kolding Kommune: 25.9%
- Billund Kommune: 15%
- Horsens Kommune: 10.7%
- Fredericia Kommune: 6.9%
- Hedensted Kommune: 6.1%
- Ikast-Brande Kommune: 1%
- Billund Lufthavn A/S (own shares): 0.1%
Expected impact on Billund’s passenger traffic
Although Ryanair’s withdrawal poses a significant challenge, Billund Lufthavn estimates that the overall decline in passenger traffic for 2025 will be around 20-25%, a less severe drop than initially feared. In 2023, the airport handled 3.9 million passengers, with Ryanair contributing to 32% of that total. The airport remains optimistic about closing the gaps left by Ryanair through alternative airline partnerships.
Looking ahead, Billund Lufthavn is prioritizing the restoration of key European routes. Klausholm highlighted the UK, Italy, and Spain as markets with high potential. Additionally, destinations in Central and Eastern Europe, such as Budapest and Vienna, are on the airport’s target list.
Billund Airport’s recovery plan after Ryanair’s exit
While Ryanair’s departure from Billund Lufthavn presents immediate challenges, the proactive response from the airport and competing airlines is helping to mitigate the impact. With Norwegian Air and other airlines stepping in to fill the void, the airport remains a crucial hub for travelers in Western Denmark. Further announcements in the coming weeks will determine whether Billund can fully recover from Ryanair’s exit.
