Our top five stories on Routes Weekly this week - subscribe here:

1. Air passenger numbers to double to 8.2 billion by 2037
The number of airline passengers travelling by 2037 could double from today’s levels to 8.2 billion, the International Air Transport Association has forecast. Director general and CEO Alexandre de Juniac said the forecast is a "cautionary warning" to governments against protectionism. Read more.

2. Ryanair CEO expects further European consolidation
Rising oil prices could force Ryanair to close more bases or cut capacity, its chief executive Michael O’Leary has cautioned. But the airline plans to speed consolidation in Europe through its aggressive pricing. Read more.

3. China Southern set to launch Madrid and Vienna routes
China Southern has applied to the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) to open four new international routes, including services to Madrid and Vienna. Juneyao Airlines is also seeking to launch a seven-weekly service to Helsinki from Shanghai. Read more.

4. Delta seeks approval for new Shanghai route
Delta Air Lines has submitted a proposal to U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to launch new route to Shanghai from Minneapolis-St. Paul. Read more.

5. Europe's aviation industry by numbers - latest update
Routesonline's latest analysis of the European aviation industry, examining the top routes, airlines and airports. Read more.

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Cyprus capacity surge and the demise of Cobalt Air
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