Nuvei and EDC Report Highlights $117 Billion Risk for Airlines Due to Payment Failures

A recent study by Nuvei and Edgar, Dunn & Company uncovers significant risks to airline revenues caused by payment failures. The report attributes up to $117 billion in potential losses in 2025 to issues like card declines and payment friction.

The research surveyed over 1,000 travelers globally, revealing that 17% experience card declines during bookings. This often results in 13% opting for competitors, while 5% abandon their purchase entirely.

The study emphasizes the importance of adopting localized payment methods to mitigate losses. Payment preferences vary by region, with users favoring Pix in Brazil, AlipayHK in Hong Kong, and PayPal in the US and UK.

The report advocates for payment orchestration strategies, which can enhance transaction approval rates and offset potential revenue deficits, shifting airlines' perception of payments from a cost to a commercial asset.