Optimization and Empirical Analysis of Airline Route Network Structure Based on Complex Network Theory

The optimization of air route network structure is not only directly related to the operational efficiency and economic benefits of airlines, but also has a profound impact on the efficiency of the entire air transport system and the travel experience of passengers. By constructing a multi-layer weighted route model of the civil aviation network in Southwest China, we can more comprehensively understand and optimize the route layout and operation strategy of the region. Based on the official data of the Civil Aviation Administration of China in 2022, 32 airports and 480 routes in the five provinces and regions of southwest China were established, forming the basic adjacency matrix of the study. Introduction-degree and degree distribution, average path length and clustering coefficient to comprehensively characterize the characteristics of the aeronautical network. Furthermore, the multi-layer weighted route network model is constructed, and the metrics of the multi-layer route network are obtained, and the connectivity of the air route network is accurately evaluated. The empirical analysis shows that when the fleet strength increases from 7,000 to 20,000, the total cost decreases by 2.033 billion yuan from 20.44, which can effectively use the increased flight strength to reduce costs. When the number of hubs is 3, the estimated total cost is the lowest, reaching 1.822 billion yuan, which is more economical than the scenario when the number of hubs is 2 and 4. It embodies the ability of complex network theory in the optimization of a single factor, and performs well in dealing with complex and changeable civil aviation network optimization problems, and can provide scientific and effective decision-making support for airlines.