xy736m
4th Nov 2011, 18:02
Hello!
Does someone know how airlines choose new flying destinations? What are the most important factors they are considering and why?
Thank you!
TopBunk
4th Nov 2011, 18:45
I'll have a starting stab at it .......
Well I suspect that it depends on whether you are a loco operator or a full service airline.
(1) If a loco like EZY or RYR
They will probably approach an airfield operator/regional government and ask how much they will give them for bringing maybe 150 tourists a day multiplied by the number of flights a day inbound from various destinations (let's say Euro10/pax x 150 x 5 flights per day from different destinations) and then insist on zero landing fees for 5 years etc etc. If they get compliance then they may start services.
(2) A full service airline like BA, VS etc
They will look at the traffic profile on the route (is it VFR [visit friends, family / recreational] or business [eg Heathrow-JFK, Lagos - Houston {oil} via LHR, etc] and try to coordinate slot times to maximise business class numbers by transfer traffic, linking to business hours to maximise the working hours available and provide flat beds for these busy businessmen, provide lounges for them to dine pre-flight/shower & eat post arrival etc etc. They will match the aircraft configuration to the route profile (think no first class and reduced business class to holiday destinations).
Just a few thoughts