Developing a strategic direction for airports to enable the provision of services to both network and low‐fare carriers

Abstract

As airports strive to attract new carriers, a new strategic direction is necessary to address the differing needs of the two main types of airline – network carriers and low‐cost airlines. The problem for the airport’s manager is compounded by the different management styles and philosophies that operate within the carriers themselves, meaning that the requirements of each airline may be subtly, or even fundamentally, different from one which might be expected to be placed in the same category. For strategic reasons, the facilities manager must understand the fundamental differences that exist between the two types of carrier. Examines the strategic response of Dublin airport to the presence of the two types of carriers requiring different services, and the difficulties faced by airport managers in the provision of the differing levels of service required by different customers. Sets out the strategic differences and suggests the resultant implications for facilities requirements. Shows that, in most cases, the provision of differing levels of “side by side” service to airlines is not possible with the existing strategic direction and that new directions are needed to facilitate the long‐term expansion of air transport.