2024 Eclipse Impact: Momentum Ventures Examines Shifts in Travel Trends

MONTREAL--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The recent solar eclipse on April 8th, 2024, not only enthralled spectators across North America but also influenced travel patterns. As the eclipse traversed the continent, it underscored the intricate interplay between natural phenomena and the travel industry. Momentum Ventures™, parent company of FlightHub™, justfly.com™, and Flygreen™, explores the eclipse's impact on travel behaviour, unveiling insights into the evolving dynamics of air travel.

The Eclipse’s Impact on Air Traffic and Travel Behaviour

Momentum Ventures observes that natural events like solar eclipses can affect consumers’ travel behaviour, thereby influencing the travel sector.

Recent data from FlightHub and justfly.com highlighted notable shifts in travel trends around the eclipse period to destinations ideal for eclipse observation. Over the weekend preceding the eclipse, domestic flight bookings to Montreal, QC, surged by 17% compared to the previous three weeks. In contrast, during the same weekend last year, there was a 13% decrease in bookings compared to the preceding three weeks.

In the United States, cities such as Dallas, Austin, and Indianapolis collectively reported an average increase of 48% in domestic travel bookings for the weekend in question. Austin led the pack with a 53% surge compared to the preceding three weeks and a 37% rise compared to the same weekend last year. Dallas followed closely with a 44% increase compared to the previous three weeks and a 47% uptick compared to 2023. Indianapolis showed the smallest increase, with a 31% growth in domestic flight bookings compared to the previous three weeks and a 16% increase compared to the same weekend last year.

"FlightHub and justfly.com's latest data spotlight intriguing travel trends during the eclipse period. Surges in domestic flight bookings to destinations like Montreal and across the U.S. demonstrate the allure of celestial events for travellers. It's a testament to the ever-evolving dynamics of travel behaviour," shares Matt Keezer, CEO of Momentum Ventures.

This pattern indicates a keen interest among travellers to experience these natural wonders up close, showing their willingness to modify their travel arrangements accordingly.

"Natural phenomena have a profound impact on the private aviation sector. At Flygreen, we understand that apart from the fascination of events like eclipses or the Northern Lights, private aviation companies also respond to natural disasters such as earthquakes and tsunamis. We witness a surge in private jet bookings, primarily for evacuation purposes," shares Matt Keezer.

This surge is often driven by individuals urgently seeking evacuation from affected areas, as disrupted flight schedules and limited availability create challenges for airlines, leading to operational struggles and mass cancellations. In such critical circumstances, private aviation becomes pivotal, providing vital assistance and safe transport when it's needed most.

A Call for Industry-Wide Collaboration

Momentum Ventures sees the solar eclipse, or any natural phenomena as a chance to underscore the value of collaboration within the aviation and travel industry. By exchanging insights, resources, and best practices, the industry can always enhance its readiness for future significant events, benefiting the sector, travellers, and the economy. Comprehensive accommodations, including flights, suitable hotels, efficient transportation, and engaging tours, are crucial for experiencing such events, and this integrated approach fosters greater traveller engagement and satisfaction.

About Momentum Ventures

Established in 2014 and headquartered in Montreal, Quebec, Momentum Ventures™ is a dynamic holding company focused on transforming the travel industry. Through a portfolio of subsidiaries including notable brands like FlightHub™ and Justfly.com™, Momentum Ventures is committed to operational excellence and sustainable growth strategies. With a track record of expanding in competitive markets, the company continues to innovate and reshape the travel sector.