Larger Planes: Airlines' Solution to Airport Congestion and Cost Increase.
Airlines are turning to bigger planes to address congested airports, rising costs, a pilot shortage, and a resurgence in travel demand. This strategy, known as "upgauging," allows airlines to sell more seats on each flight and make do with fewer planes, which are in short supply. However, it also means fewer flight options for consumers. Some airlines are also reducing their reliance on regional feeder airlines to increase passengers per plane.