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Connectivity and Concentration in Airline Networks: A Complexity Analysis of Lufthansa's Network

Author

Listed:
  • Aura Reggiani

    (University of Bologna, Italy)

  • Peter Nijkamp

    (VU University Amsterdam)

  • Alessandro Cento

    (KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Milan, Italy)

Abstract

Information, communication and transport networks have always been in a state of flux, while they also influence each other. Extensive research efforts have been made to investigate the dynamics in the structure and use of networks, e.g., by means of network geometries, small-world effects and scale-free phenomena. We will illustrate these new developments on the basis of airline network evolution. The present paper provides a new contribution to the analysis of topological properties of complex airline networks. Using Lufthansa's networks as an example, this paper aims to show the empirical relevance of various network indicators - such as connectivity and concentration - for understanding changing patterns in airline network configurations. After an extensive discussion of various statistical results, a decision-aid method, viz. multi-criteria analysis, is used to investigate the robustness of our findings. The results highlight the actual strategic choices made by Lufthansa for its own network, as well in combination with its partners in Star Alliance.

Suggested Citation

  • Aura Reggiani & Peter Nijkamp & Alessandro Cento, 2011. "Connectivity and Concentration in Airline Networks: A Complexity Analysis of Lufthansa's Network," Tinbergen Institute Discussion Papers 11-111/3, Tinbergen Institute.
    • Handle: RePEc:tin:wpaper:20110111
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    File URL: https://papers.tinbergen.nl/11111.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Brueckner, Jan K. & Pels, Eric, 2005. "European airline mergers, alliance consolidation, and consumer welfare," Journal of Air Transport Management, Elsevier, vol. 11(1), pages 27-41.
    2. Peter H. M. Vervest & Diederik W. Liere & Li Zheng, 2009. "The Network Experience," Springer Books, Springer, number 978-3-540-85582-8, January.
    3. Aura Reggiani & Peter Nijkamp (ed.), 2006. "Spatial Dynamics, Networks and Modelling," Books, Edward Elgar Publishing, number 3887.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    Cited by:

    1. Huijuan Yang & Meilong Le & Di Wang, 2021. "Airline Network Structure: Motifs and Airports’ Role in Cliques," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(17), pages 1-14, August.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    airline networks; complexity; connectivity; concentration; degree distribution; network geometry; multicriteria analysis;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • L93 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Transportation and Utilities - - - Air Transportation

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