JournalTOCs

Journal of Air Transport Management

[4 followers] Follow
Full-text available via subscription

Subscription journal
ISSN (Print) 0969-6997
Published by Elsevier

[2565 journals]

Editorial Board
- Abstract: Publication date: July 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 30
  
  PubDate: 2013-06-12T14:09:13Z
Brazilian passengers' perceptions of air travel: Evidences from a survey
- Abstract: Publication date: August 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 31
  Author(s): Marina F. Greghi , Talita N. Rossi , Jerusa B.G. de Souza , Nilton L. Menegon
  This paper investigates the difficulties and discomforts that Brazilian passengers experienced at airports and during their flights. A survey conducted between November 2009 and February 2010 at 36 large Brazilian airports elicited information about passenger and travel characterization, and air travel experiences at airports, and in aircraft cabins. The analysis shows that the main sources of difficulty, and consequently discomforts at the airport were delay and cancellations, loss of luggage, and overbooking. It also finds that major discomforts during air travel are related to seat and cabin space.
  Highlights ► At airports passenger concerns are over facilities and delay and cancellations of flights, loss of luggage, and overbooking. ► On aircraft, legroom and personal space are a particular passenger concern. ► Flight and crew services and cabin lighting, levels noise, temperature, and vibration are less of a concern. ► There are interactions between the various concerns that can magnify their importance.
  
  PubDate: 2013-06-12T14:09:13Z
Editorial Board
- Abstract: Publication date: August 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 31
  
  PubDate: 2013-06-12T14:09:13Z
Physical infrastructure and flight consolidation efficiency drivers in Brazilian airports: A two-stage network-DEA approach
- Abstract: Publication date: August 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 31
  Author(s): Peter F. Wanke
  Efficiency in Brazilian airports is measured using a two-stage process. In the first stage, physical infrastructure efficiency, assets, such as terminal area, aircraft parking spaces, and runways are related to the number of landings and take-offs per year. The second focuses on flight consolidation efficiency in terms of the number of passengers carried and cargo handled per year. A network-DEA centralized efficiency model is used to optimize the stages simultaneously. Results indicate that contextual variables or efficiency drivers, such as hub operations and airport location, impact physical infrastructure and flight consolidation efficiency levels differently.
  Highlights ► Efficiency in Brazilian airports is measured using a two-stage DEA model. ► In the first stage, assets are used to accomplish a number of movements per year. ► In the second stage, these movements allow passengers and cargoes to be carried. ► Results indicate that efficiency drivers impact these stages differently.
  
  PubDate: 2013-06-12T14:09:13Z
The airline business model spectrum
- Abstract: Publication date: August 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 31
  Author(s): Gui Lohmann , Tay T.R. Koo
  The paper examines the passenger airline industry on the premise that there is now a continuum of different business models in play rather than a simple categorization by discrete groups. We allocate the airlines within a spectrum of different business models, taking particular cognizance of the subtleties of hybrid and regional airlines that tends to mix the characteristics of low-cost and full service providers. Data from nine major US carriers are used to map and summarize their business models in terms of revenue, connectivity, convenience, comfort, aircraft and labor use. While airline business models can be delineated to a certain extent, our results also highlight a high degree of variation within each carrier with respect to the factors examined, and particularly so for hybrid airlines.
  Highlights ► The paper produces a spectrum of airline business models for US-based airline. ► It develops six indices reflecting the features of various airline. ► There is considerable variation in airline business models, especially away from the full service carriers.
  
  PubDate: 2013-06-12T14:09:13Z
Analysis of airport noise exposure around Viracopos International Airport using geographic information systems
- Abstract: Publication date: August 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 31
  Author(s): Flavio Maldonado Bentes , Tarcilene Aparecida Heleno , Jules Ghislain Slama
  This paper analyses airport noise exposure around Viracopos International Airport by quantifying the proportion of highly annoyed people in surrounding zones using simulations, integrated noise models and geographic information systems.
  Highlights ► We compare three models for allocating airport noise nuisance. ► An integrated noise model and geographic information systems are combined to conduct the analysis. ► SBKP noise curves were generated in the DNL metric. ► Highly annoyed people in groups with different characteristics are linked to noise exposure bands. ► In 60–65 dB (A) range was found higher noise exposure converging to same value.
  
  PubDate: 2013-06-12T14:09:13Z
Effect of core competence on organizational performance in an airport shopping center
- Abstract: Publication date: August 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 31
  Author(s): Chiung-Ju Liang , Ying-Li Lin , Hsiu-Feng Huang
  This paper examines the relationships among core competence, unobservable human capital, and organizational performance conduct at an airport shopping center making use of personal interviews and secondary data. Factor analysis and hierarchical models are used to explore the relationship between performance and competence among employees. The findings suggest that the variables of core competences are positively correlated with organizational performance. Viewed from the perspective of job position, the management and non-management core competences of employees have different effects on organizational performances. The core competences of non-management, provide the greatest contribution to the performance of the shopping center while those for management are irrelevant.
  Highlights ► We found that the variables of core competences are positively correlated with organizational performance. ► Management and Non-management core competences of employees have different effects on organizational performances. ► This study revealed that the younger the employee, the better the performance of employees. ► The past professional skills and work-related competence have a reverse effect on the performance.
  
  PubDate: 2013-06-12T14:09:13Z
Productivity analysis of European airlines, 2000–2011
- Abstract: Publication date: August 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 31
  Author(s): Carlos Pestana Barros , Eduardo Couto
  This paper uses the Luenberger productivity indicator to evaluate productivity changes of European airlines, combining operational and financial variables from 2000 to 2011. For comparative purposes the Malmquist index is estimated. Three low cost European airlines are inserted in the data set, Virgin Atlantic, EasyJet and Ryanair.
  Highlights ► This paper evaluates the productivity of European airlines using the Luenberger indicator and Malmquist index. ► Productivity decreased for almost all airlines between 2000 and 2011. ► Productivity rose a small group that includes the low cost airlines in the sample.
  
  PubDate: 2013-06-12T14:09:13Z
Modelling air carrier choices with a Segment Specific Cross Nested Logit model
- Abstract: Publication date: September 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 32
  Author(s): Tomasz Drabas , Cheng-Lung Wu
  A number of customer segments may exist in any air travel market, differing in the willingness-to-pay, income, age, time of travel or airline preferences. Not accounting for this diversity may introduce a significant variance into any choice model. In this paper we present a Segment Specific Cross-Nested Logit with Brand Loyalty (SSCNL-BL) model that explicitly accounts for this heterogeneity. The model is estimated using data from a stated preference choice experiment conducted among Australians travelling to the United States. The resulting SSCNL-BL model performs better than the more complex Mixed Logit model without the additional computational burden.
  
  PubDate: 2013-06-12T14:09:13Z
Customer service in the aviation industry – An exploratory analysis of UAE airports
- Abstract: Publication date: September 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 32
  Author(s): Mohammed Arif , Aman Gupta , Aled Williams
  Customer satisfaction is given top priority by all service-oriented industries. The civil aviation industry is no exception. The highly competitive global aviation arena causes various airlines to vie for the top position with lot of importance being given to the customer service. The aim of this study is to analyze the methods and tools used by the United Arab Emirates' (UAE's) federal government and the various local governments in the country to improve the customer satisfaction with regard to the aviation industry in the country. This paper develops a framework to assess customer service in the aviation sector in the UAE and uses the framework to analyze and compare the three main airports in the UAE based on the feedback of passengers. This study used a multi-pronged approach to collect data. In all, 78 travelers were chosen at random and they were administered a structured and a semi-structured questionnaire. Responses to the former were used to perform Chi-square test and establish the differences between the three airports; the latter were used to gain deeper insight and gauge a more in-depth opinion of the respondents. Through the analysis of the data, this study was able to learn more about the public view with regard to the innovations and ideas implemented by the government of the UAE. A new customer service model has been developed to compare the three airports in UAE and gain more insights into opportunities for improvement.
  
  PubDate: 2013-05-31T14:08:43Z
The cost of airport security: The passenger dilemma
- Abstract: Publication date: July 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 30
  Author(s): Alan (Avi) Kirschenbaum
  The cost of providing security in airports, especially in facilitating passenger throughput, has risen despite efforts to upgrade training and technology. The classic measure of passenger throughput assumes passengers are passive cogs in a carefully designed security matrix to optimize output. This perspective does not take into account passenger behavior, especially passenger negotiations during the screening process. To both clarify this social contextual process and estimate its differential costs on security screening, a case study emergent from the BEMOSA research project was arranged in an airport where both an ethnographic and ‘time-motion’ study were conducted. The results clearly showed the extent of negotiations that take place and the type of passenger most associated with delays in the “ideal” throughput scenario. Calculating direct costs of manpower associated with security screening of passengers and the different throughput times led to the conclusion that even though the “good passengers”, those who pass through the security process in the minimum time, are the bulk of passenger throughput, “problematic” passengers who negotiate make up the bulk of the costs. These findings highlight the dilemma faced by security managers but also provide a window of opportunity to seek appropriate solutions.
  
  PubDate: 2013-05-31T14:08:43Z
Devising airport groupings for financial benchmarking
- Abstract: Publication date: July 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 30
  Author(s): Hans-Arthur Vogel , Anne Graham
  This paper uses cluster analysis to assess whether it might be a useful tool to select airport groups for comparative financial and economic performance studies. The research uses a sample of 73 airports, or airport operators, from all over the world. Nine key performance indicators (KPIs) are used to determine the clusters and the relationship between these clusters and possible explanatory variables is explored. Three clusters are produced which are similar for 2003 and 2010. One consists almost entirely of North American airports, one is dominated by European airports and one has a mixture of European and other (non-North American) airports. It is concluded that such an approach may indeed prove useful, not only just in the financial and economic areas, but with other aspects of airport performance that can be measured with a selection of KPIs.
  
  PubDate: 2013-05-27T14:08:08Z
Ground access to airports, case study: Port Columbus International Airport
- Abstract: Publication date: July 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 30
  Author(s): Gulsah Akar
  This study examines the ground access mode choices of passengers traveling to Port Columbus International Airport in Columbus, Ohio. The survey was conducted with 642 individuals at the airport in April 2012. The survey included questions about passengers' flights, attitudes toward auto-use, interest in alternative modes of transportation, important factors affecting mode choice, and socio-demographic information. The factors affecting passengers' mode choices constituted the greatest focus of the survey. Binary logit models are estimated to analyze the passengers' interest in taking alternative modes of transportation. The results show that individuals who are on business trips, flying alone (or with fewer people), and already trying to reduce their auto-use in general are more likely to take alternative modes of transportation to the airport. In addition, the most important factors that affect individuals' ground access mode decisions are presented separately for travelers on business trips and non-business trips.
  
  PubDate: 2013-05-15T14:05:40Z
Safety climate of commercial pilots: The effect of pilot ranks and employment experiences
- Abstract: Publication date: July 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 30
  Author(s): Yi Gao , Peter J. Bruce , David G. Newman , Chrystal B. Zhang
  This study designed and conducted a survey to examine the safety climate of the flight crew of an Asia-Pacific airline. The survey instrument collected responses of flight crew to a list of statements deemed relevant to their safety climate. Exploratory factor analysis identified and confirmed four safety related themes covering 15 survey items, which were named Safety Feedback, Confidence in Safety Reporting System, Company Safety Philosophy, and Safety Promotion & Communication. The survey results showed that a majority of participants responded positively to statements captured by these four themes, indicating a generally healthy safety climate within the airline. Statistical analyses also revealed that pilots of lower ranks and shorter employment experience with the company generally were more positive about the safety climate than senior pilots. Comments provided by flight crew confirmed findings of quantitative analysis, and also identified key areas to improve the overall safety culture of the company.
  
  PubDate: 2013-05-11T14:05:54Z
Airport gate assignments for airline-specific gates
- Abstract: Publication date: July 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 30
  Author(s): Ching-Hui Tang , Wei-Chung Wang
  The airline-specific gate, which is exclusively used by a specific airline, has been utilized in many airports. Differing from the traditional gate assignment, allocating flights to airline-specific gates is based on the perspective of the airline rather than that of the airport authority. In this study, we propose a new objective that results from an airline's perspective. Numerical tests, based on the operations of a Taiwanese airline, are carried out to assess the performance of the proposed approach.
  
  PubDate: 2013-05-03T14:06:32Z
Editorial Board
- Abstract: Publication date: June 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 29
  
  PubDate: 2013-04-21T14:10:31Z
Effects of the addition of simple and double decoys on the purchasing process of airline tickets
- Abstract: Publication date: June 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 29
  Author(s): David Gonzalez-Prieto , Jose M. Sallan , Pep Simo , Raimon Carrion
  Air ticket purchases can be considered to be based on sequential decision-making processes with a limited number of alternatives with clearly identified product attributes. With this scenario, decoy contextual effects could potentially be useful in increasing the profitability of each choice set through driving the attention of the users to a particular alternative by changing their perceptions, such as the perceived attractiveness of particular options, to benefit one specific alternative. This study validates the efficiency of the addition of decoy options in increasing the proportion of users who select the target option in a choice set and introduces, theoretically and empirically, the use of double decoys. Three distinct hypothetical choice sets are configured using two different types of decoy.
  
  PubDate: 2013-04-21T14:10:31Z
The measurement scale for airline hospitality: Cabin crew's performance perspective
- Abstract: Publication date: July 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 30
  Author(s): Ehsaneh N.M. Nameghi , Ahmad Azmi M. Ariffin
  The main objectives of this study are to identify the underlying dimensions of airline hospitality in the context of a full-service airline and subsequently to propose a scale to measure the construct in the case of Malaysian airline industry. In this study, airline hospitality is defined based on cabin crew performance or hosting behaviour. In order to stand out among extremely intense competition in today's air travel industry, airline companies must find ways to offer not only distinctive service but hospitable in-flight services. The exploratory factor analysis performed on the first data set involving 391 airline passengers indicated that airline hospitality consists of four underlying dimensions that explained 67% of the total variance. The dimensions are labelled as Courtesy, Appreciation, Socialising, and Comfort. The results of the confirmatory factor analysis carried out on a second data set comprising 546 respondents validated the four-factor structure measurement model that consisted of 19 items with satisfactory reliability and validity indices.
  
  PubDate: 2013-04-17T14:16:45Z
The impact of environmental variables on the efficiency of Chinese and other non-Chinese airlines
- Abstract: Publication date: June 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 29
  Author(s): Yongqiang Wu , Changzheng He , Xuefei Cao
  This paper explores the impact of an international focus, the proportion of cargo traffic, and the level of salaries on the operational efficiency of Chinese airlines and other non-Chinese airlines. Data envelopment analysis (DEA) is employed to evaluate the operational efficiency and a bootstrapped truncated regression is applied to explore the impact of environmental variables on efficiency. The results show that an international focus has a negative impact, while the level of salaries has a positive impact. Also, we demonstrate that there is an inverted U-shaped relationship between efficiency and the proportion of cargo traffic.
  
  PubDate: 2013-04-13T15:38:54Z
The relationship between airport image, national identity and passengers delight: A case study of the Malaysian low cost carrier terminal (LCCT)
- Abstract: Available online 27 March 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management
  
  This study examines the relationship between airport image and passengers delight in the context of a low cost carrier terminal in Malaysia. It also seeks to investigate the moderating effect of the airport's national identity on the predicted relationship between the two main constructs. The research, involving 200 passengers (foreign tourists), employed Hierarchical Moderated Regression as the main method of data analysis. The results revealed that there is a strong positive relationship between the airport image and passengers delight, and that national identity helps strengthen the relationship of the main effect.
  
  PubDate: 2013-03-28T15:23:25Z
Aviation liberalization as a means to promote international tourism: The EU–Morocco case
- Abstract: June 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 29
  
  This paper analyzes the extent to which the liberalization of the airline market between the EU and Morocco has led to significant changes in both air services and leisure travel, thus contributing to the Moroccan tourist master plan to attract 10 million tourists. Liberalization has led to a large expansion of regular air services in terms of the number of seats and routes supplied but also to a decrease in charter business. The low-cost airlines are the main players in this move. International leisure mobility to Morocco has also strongly increased, although the relation with air transport liberalization is less clear. This increase involves both Moroccans living abroad and foreign tourists. Air transport has grown its market share despite the significant decrease in the number of tour operator packages sold. The increase is particularly large among Moroccan citizens living abroad, suggesting new habits with regard to long-distance mobility.
  
  PubDate: 2013-03-28T15:23:25Z
The intention and determining factors for airline passengers' participation in carbon offset schemes
- Abstract: June 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 29
  
  Many airlines are now offering carbon offset schemes for their passengers to reduce their carbon footprint. This study uses the model of goal-directed behavior (MGB) as a basis to understand the intention and determining factors for airline passengers participating in carbon offset plans. Structural equation modeling is used to analyze data collected from 360 passengers in Taiwan. The results show that personal norms and positive anticipated emotions have a positive effect on desires. Desires have a positive and significant influence on intentions to participate in carbon offset schemes. The findings of this study can be beneficial for airlines wishing to promote carbon offset schemes.
  Highlights ► The model of goal-directed behavior is used to understand airline passengers' intention to participate in carbon offset plans. ► Personal norms and positive anticipated emotions have a positive effect on desires. ► Desires have a positive influence on intention to participate in carbon offset schemes.
  
  PubDate: 2013-03-08T15:21:46Z
Editorial Board
- Abstract: May 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 28
  
  PubDate: 2013-03-08T15:21:46Z
Carbon emission allocation methods for the aviation sector
- Abstract: Available online 15 February 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management
  
  The European Union Directive 2008/101/EC to include aviation activities in its Emissions Trading Scheme by 2012 has met with mixed reactions. Any permit allocation method must be relatively easy to understand, implement and low in administration costs. The proposed method of allocation however does not favor energy efficient aircraft operators and may undermine efforts to restrict growth of emissions from the aviation sector. This study proposes an alternative permit allocation method which favors energy efficient aircraft operators and avoids excessive over competition. It tests the outcomes through experiments. The experiments are built on the Cournot model designed to simulate the aviation industry under the EU and Augmented EU emissions trading schemes. Results suggest higher profits for airlines but at the expense of higher operating costs. The higher profits are primarily the result of higher revenues.
  Highlights ► The European Emissions Trading Scheme by 2012 has met with mixed reactions. ► The proposed method of allocation does not favor energy efficient aircraft operators. ► This study proposes an allocation method which favors energy efficient aircraft operators. ► We use the Cournot model designed to simulate the industry under EU emissions trading schemes. ► The results suggest higher profits but higher operating costs of airlines.
  
  PubDate: 2013-02-16T12:01:27Z
The effectiveness of airline crisis management on brand protection: A case study of British Airways
- Abstract: Available online 8 February 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management
  
  This paper considers extant studies on crisis communications, crisis management and brand management and examines how British Airways react in order to protect the airline's brand when confronted with a crisis. Theory dictates that different strategies should be employed for different crisis situations. British Airways' response to four crises is critically evaluated. The effectiveness of British Airways' crisis management on brand protection is evaluated using a quantitative brand metric that measures consumers' perception on a daily basis. The paper thus analyses how the airline company and the airline's brand responded to the original crises and the exposure that followed which results in the identification of clear conclusions from each of the four crises.
  Highlights ► British Airways' crisis response is evaluated and the impact on consumers' perception of the airline's brand is assessed. ► Airline crisis management and contingency planning are critical to brand protection. ► A fast response by the airline is critical and should incorporate social media. ► The post-crisis response should include other aviation industry stakeholders.
  
  PubDate: 2013-02-12T13:31:07Z
Editorial Board
- Abstract: March 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 27
  
  PubDate: 2013-02-08T13:30:29Z
Direct air transport and demand interaction: A vector error-correction model approach
- Abstract: Available online 4 February 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management
  
  The goal of this paper is to impose a cause–effect structure into the relation between tourism demand and air transport capacity. Specifically, we apply a vector error-correction model to assess if, and to what extent, capacity or passenger demand are first-movers that return to long-run equilibrium following short-run deviations. Using data on international aviation between Australia and our test cases of China and Japan, we find that demand on the Japan–Australia market corrects for short-run deviations from the long-run equilibrium quicker than the China–Australia market. Reasons for such variation in adjustment speeds are discussed and we show that the results are robust to the phenomenon of airlines pre-empting demand when setting capacity.
  Highlights ► Vector error-correction models can formalize the aviation capacity–demand relation. ► Our model helps determine how the capacity–demand equilibrium is restored in the short-run. ► The speed of adjustment to equilibrium depends on tourism market characteristics. ► We show some evidence of greater passenger responsiveness in mature markets.
  
  PubDate: 2013-02-08T13:30:29Z
Do airport capacity constraints have a serious impact on the future development of air traffic'
- Abstract: Available online 1 February 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management
  
  The air transport industry is one characterised by long-term growth, at least on the demand side. The question is whether or not the airport infrastructure side will be suited to accommodate future air traffic, given the fact that there are already now important hub airports that suffer from capacity bottlenecks. The paper analyses the general capacity constraint situation by comparing traffic with capacity for the largest 1000 airports in the global network. In deriving peak hour volumes and capacity utilisation indices from annual volumes we identify those airports that currently face capacity problems and those that will in the near future.
  Highlights ► Air transport is characterised by a long term demand growth. ► Important hub airports already suffer from capacity bottlenecks. ► Necessary capacity expansion plans may be delayed due to opposition from the public. ► Capacity utilisation as the ratio of an average hour and 5% peak hour volume. ► In 2008, 6% of all flights were operated at capacity constrained airports.
  
  PubDate: 2013-02-04T00:50:21Z
An outsourcing provider decision model for the airline industry
- Abstract: Available online 23 January 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management
  
  Outsourcing has become the next critical business process that needs to be addressed by airlines. Successful outsourcing depends on the selection of the appropriate provider. However, this practice is not always successful and its theoretical justification has not been fully explored. Some significant efforts have been made based on the transaction cost economics framework. Different from previous studies, we propose a new hybrid Multiple Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) model, which combines the Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory and the Analytical Network Process (DANP) method. Our model overcomes problems with previous methods. Our results show that: 1) employees with good knowledge skills contribute to better service quality; 2) a good relationship between airlines and their partners is the foundation of a successful outsourcing activity; and 3) risk plays a major role in the outsourcing evaluation system, and has the greatest effect on the other dimensions. The model can be extended to other service sectors.
  Highlights ► This study uses a multi-criteria decision model to select outsourcing providers. ► A hybrid model addresses the interdependence and the network relationship criteria. ► Employees with good knowledge skills contribute to better service quality. ► Risk plays a major role in the outsourcing evaluation system. ► A good relationship with partners is the foundation for successful outsourcing activity.
  
  PubDate: 2013-01-27T06:43:09Z
Derivation of representative air traffic peaks as standard input for airport related simulation
- Abstract: Available online 23 January 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management
  
  The high diversity in air traffic situations at airports worldwide complicates the selection of an appropriate set of operational cases for a general technology and procedure evaluation in airport related simulation. In this research, representative airport peak hour traffic situations are determined. Flight data from multiple airports is analyzed and traffic peaks are automatically detected and parameterized, taking into account arrival and departure movement shares for ten aircraft weight groups. A subsequent clustering process results in an optimal number of 16 characteristic peak types. These are representative peaks that provide a limited set of typical peak traffic situations of relevance for a large number of airports worldwide, which can be directly used as input for air traffic simulation, providing standardized traffic situations to ensure comparability and clarity.
  Highlights ► There is a need for airport traffic structures as standard inputs for airside simulation. ► This will enable general non-airport specific technology and procedure assessment. ► A cluster analysis based method is used to derive representative traffic peaks. ► Traffic peaks are defined by movement shares of aircraft weight groups. ► Results show 16 traffic peak types at airports worldwide.
  
  PubDate: 2013-01-27T06:43:09Z
An analysis of the impact of aircraft lifecycles on aviation emissions mitigation policies
- Abstract: Available online 21 January 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management
  
  Many options for mitigating aviation's environmental impact rely on introduction of new aircraft technology, retrofits or early retirement of older aircraft. Using a global fleet database, we analyse aircraft lifecycles and their interaction with fuel price, demand, policy and economic cycles. Simple relationships, including aircraft retirement curves, are estimated to allow insight into the effectiveness and timescales of emissions reductions from these measures. We find variations in retirement age and retrofits have historically had little effect on global emissions. The design and purchasing stages offer a more promising target, subject to long timescales and demand growth rates.
  
  PubDate: 2013-01-23T03:03:18Z
Change in air services at second rank cities
- Abstract: Available online 21 January 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management
  
  There has been some conflicting analysis of the recent and likely future air services available at second rank cities. On the one hand, the sheer scale of economic activity associated with market demand (allied to the use of new larger aircraft) has maintained concentrations of air services at high ranking global city hubs. On the other, shifts in global production have drawn a wider array of cities, especially those from emerging economies, into global networks. That has been facilitated by the use of smaller long-haul aircraft, which are well suited to market demand in lower ranked cities. The paper explores these alternative views by analysing recent change in airline services at first and second ranked cities as identified by a major urban research project. Using a commercial air services data base, Capstats, the paper assembles and analyses the number of seats provided by airlines at six ranked categories of cities over the period 2005–2010. It finds that there have been some shifts in activity in favour of second ranked cities, but that outcome varies substantially from city to city. These results confirm earlier findings that the link between city size and air service is a complex one. To refine and enhance that insight, the paper suggests analyses of the way the airlines serve different sized cities (as expressed in aircraft type and airline size, for example). Case studies of the change in air services of some cities will also be useful.
  
  PubDate: 2013-01-23T03:03:18Z
Market clustering and performance of U.S. OD markets
- Abstract: Available online 22 January 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management
  
  We segment the U.S. OD markets into peer groups, using a statistical cluster analysis on OD city-pair data on the basis of market concentration, passenger volume and yield. The results show: 1) that high yield markets have, on average, consistently underperformed the industry in both passenger and revenue growth, whereas low yield markets have led the industry in both areas; and 2) mid-sized ODs have experienced higher average growth and lower volatility than the largest U.S. domestic ODs, which have accounted for the least revenue per passenger as compared to all other market types. Financial portfolio analysis indicates the prospect of long-term decision making based on OD market risk and return rather than the aggregated market share analysis used by airlines today.
  Highlights ► Origin destination markets reflect intrinsic characteristics that drive performance. ► We segment origin destination markets using clusters that reflect natural peer groups. ► We model the performance attributes of origin destination markets using the Sharpe ratio. ► Granularity of origin destination market classification enables portfolio optimization. ► Airline market share and demand models should be developed for peer groups.
  
  PubDate: 2013-01-23T03:03:18Z
Determinants of European PSO airline efficiency – Evidence from a semi-parametric approach
- Abstract: June 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 29
  
  In the last decade, the use of public service obligations (PSO; regulation and/or subsidies) in air transport to European remoter regions has substantially increased. However, there is significant heterogeneity between different regions in Europe with respect to the provision of PSO operations which makes benchmarking of European PSO airlines and learning from best practices a worthwhile activity. Particularly during the current times of government austerity it is interesting to understand, whether individual PSO operators are efficiently run. As most of these services are supposed to be vital for the social and economic development of the relevant regions, it is decisive to examine factors (other than cease operation) that could improve this efficiency. This paper applies a two-stage DEA approach to measure the efficiency of 18 European PSO airlines over two fiscal years. We then use truncated regressions to determine the impact of specific details of the airlines and their 206 PSO contracts on efficiency. Our results suggest that ownership has no impact on the airlines efficiency. By contrast, the number of remaining months (before a PSO is due for renewal) on these contracts has a very significant positive and the average stage length a negative impact on the efficiency of the associated airlines.
  Highlights ► This paper identifies determinants of efficiency of 18 PSO airlines in Europe. ► Contract duration, ownership and subsidies have no impact on PSO airline efficiency. ► Number of remaining months on PSO contracts has positive impact on airline efficiency. ► Lack of incentives for efficiency improvements as a result of limited competition.
  
  PubDate: 2013-01-23T03:03:18Z
A conceptual framework for measuring airline business model convergence
- Abstract: Available online 11 January 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management
  
  This paper develops a measurement framework that synthesizes the airline and strategy literature to identify relevant dimensions and elements of airline business models. The applicability of this framework for describing airline strategies and structures and, based on this conceptualization, for assessing the potential convergence of airline business models over time is then illustrated using a small sample of five German passenger airlines. For this sample, the perception of a rapprochement of business models can be supported. This paper extends the mostly qualitative and anecdotal literature on convergence in the airline industry and provides a platform for further empirical convergence studies.
  Highlights ► Introduces a consistent framework for measuring distinct airline business models. ► Framework offers support to airline managers and business analysts. ► Framework applicable for measuring convergence among airlines. ► First empirical indication for convergence toward a full-service carrier model. ► Airline managers of both LCC and FSC have to refocus on their respective strengths.
  
  PubDate: 2013-01-19T15:12:54Z
Aircraft gauge differences between the US and Europe and their operational implications
- Abstract: June 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 29
  
  In this paper, we perform a segment-level analysis of the structural differences in average gauge in the US and Europe and assess their impact on traffic and delay at major US airports. The results show that, while average gauge is consistently greater in Europe, the magnitude of the difference is larger for low density and longer segments. The 30% greater traffic at major US airports as compared to those in Europe is to the result of the structural difference in the average gauge. Flight delay at major US airports would decrease by an average of 5–6 min if the gauge relationship were governed by the European gauge relationship.
  Highlights ► We investigate structural differences in average gauge in the US and Europe. ► We assess the impact of gauge differences on traffic and delay at major US airports. ► The differences in flight segment characteristics reduce the gauge disparity. ► Observed traffic difference is attributed to differences in gauge relationships. ► Flight delays at US airports would decrease if following European gauge recipe.
  
  PubDate: 2013-01-19T15:12:54Z
Selected papers from the Air Transport Research Society Conference Sydney, 2011
- Abstract: Available online 11 January 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management
  
  PubDate: 2013-01-19T15:12:54Z
Evaluating the performance of Chinese airports
- Abstract: Available online 6 January 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management
  
  This paper assesses whether geographical characteristics and service strategies influence the performance of Chinese airports. It examines the technical efficiency of 41 Chinese airports in 2008; with data envelopment analysis then regressed on environmental factors. The results show that airports located in cities with populations of more than two million are more efficient than those for other city sizes. Further, airports that are able to accommodate A380 or Boeing 747 aircraft are operationally more efficient than other categories, and airports' efficiency improves with the number of airlines using them. The distance between an airport and the local central business district, however, does not significantly affect its performance.
  Highlights ► Modified DEA provides evidence of efficiency in terms of technical, pure technical and scale on airport performance. ► Airports cities with populations of more than two million are more efficient than others. ► Chinese airports able to accommodate A380 or Boeing 747 aircraft are operated more efficiently.
  
  PubDate: 2013-01-11T01:29:49Z
An analysis of air traffic controller-pilot miscommunication in the NextGen environment
- Abstract: March 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 27
  
  This paper extends research on miscommunication between air traffic controllers and pilots by developing statistical models that predict the outcome of communications within the scope of controller-pilot data communications in the Next Generation Air Transportation environment. A database of controller-pilot voice messages from high and super-high altitude en-route sectors of US airspace is investigated. Emphasis is given to parameters that can be utilized in the voice-only communication, as well as in the mixed media, environment. This allows formulation of reasonable assumptions about the impact of data communications on controller and pilot behavior. The models indicate that the most important factors affecting communications are length and context of the message, entering of an aircraft into a sector, transfer of communication, and radio frequency congestion. The results also suggest that the transmission of non-time critical routine messages via data communications could reduce the number of communication errors and alleviate radio frequency congestion.
  Highlights ► Logistic and hierarchical tree-based regression analysis are used to examine air traffic controller-pilot miscommunications. ► Communication management messages are more likely to result in miscommunications. ► Lengthy messages and high voice channel occupancy increase the error potential.
  
  PubDate: 2013-01-03T01:30:11Z
Analysis of an aircraft accident model in Taiwan
- Abstract: March 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 27
  
  This paper examines factors that have influenced the average accident rate per million departures in Taiwan from 1985 to 2011 involving turbojet aircraft hull loss. Our analysis is based on the nature of rare events, used to find the importance of the International Civil Aviation Organization occurrence categories. The most significant occurrences were in order of importance are: takeoff, landing, and ground operations; aircraft; miscellaneous; weather; and airborne. The subcategory of runway incursion—vehicle, aircraft, or person was the most significant effect for accidents; runway excursion for serious incidents; system/component failure or malfunction in non-power plant; turbulence encounter for occurrences; and controlled flight into or toward terrain for fatal accidents.
  Highlights ► We examine influences on the accident rate per million departures in Taiwan involving turbojet aircraft hull loss. ► The analysis is based on the nature of rare events. ► The most significant accidents are in takeoff, landing, and ground operations; aircraft; weather; and airborne.
  
  PubDate: 2012-12-26T06:54:46Z
Harmonization of market entry regulation for the operation of air services in the European Union: A comparative survey of the implementation of Regulation (EC) no. 1008/2008 by Member States' authorities
- Abstract: March 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 27
  
  This paper assesses the implications of Reg. (EC) no. 1008/2008 that confirmed the operating license granting as a persistent form of entry regulation in the EU air transport market. It finds that the actions of Member States' aviation authorities regarding assessment of air carriers' financial stability are not uniform in terms of data and information collected, the methods and tools adopted, and the indicators monitored. The heterogeneous implementation of the 2008 regulation by Member States' aviation authorities results in imposing unequal obligations on undertakings with equal rights to operate in the European market for air services.
  Highlights ► Reg. 1008/2008 did not harmonize the entry regulation in the EU air transport market. ► The assessment of carriers' financial fitness by national authorities is not uniform. ► The implementation of Reg. 1008/2008 imposes uneven obligations on European carriers. ► The EU fell short of creating a level playing field for air carriers.
  
  PubDate: 2012-12-26T06:54:46Z
Is European benchmarking methodology favouring a narrow segment of air navigation service providers'
- Abstract: March 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 27
  
  This paper looks at the calculation of composite flight hours used input to performance benchmarking of European air navigation service providers. The way the en-route part of the composite flight hours is obtained, potentially rewards busy air navigation service providers serving larger airports with additional composite flight hours, thus making them more productive and financially cost-efficient. We also examine the financial effect of the methodology and link it to economic cost-effectiveness.
  Highlights ► The current benchmarking methodology used by EUROCONTROL is bias. ► The way composite flight hours are specified influences benchmarking results. ► ANSPs with more delays from airborne holdings or other delaying actions appear more productive than those with no such delays.
  
  PubDate: 2012-12-22T01:31:16Z
Editorial Board
- Abstract: January 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 26
  
  PubDate: 2012-12-18T01:32:36Z
The 2011 Martin Kunz Memorial Lecture: Air transport, the environment and institutional economics
- Abstract: January 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 26
  
  The focus of this paper looks the role that institutional economics can play in helping our understanding of how environmental problems arise in the air transport sector, and how policy responses are derived. It is positive in the sense that it seeks to help our understanding of things, rather than being in anyway prescriptive about what should be done to enhance the environmental performance of the air transport sector. What does seem to be clear is that simply arguments over alternative policy tools or packages of tools is rather sterile without due consideration of the prevailing institutional structures.
  Highlights ► Institutions are important in understanding environmental economics and policies. ► Environmental damage from air transport often involves significant government failures. ► Transactions costs in implementing environmental policies make pure trading options sub-optimal.
  
  PubDate: 2012-12-18T01:32:36Z
Air passengers' shopping motivation and information seeking behaviour
- Abstract: March 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 27
  
  This study investigates the motivations of shoppers at Taiwan's Taoyuan International Airport. From a sample of over 500 individuals, we find that motivations are similar to in-store shoppers elsewhere, with travel and airport motivations being a special factor depending on the airport shopping environment and local shopping cultures. While decision convenience is the main factor concerning air passengers' information seeking in a terminal, other factors such as free time before boarding, involvement, and group travelling exercise differential effects on the information seeking behaviour of air passenger groups. This result suggests the heterogeneous information seeking behaviour patterns and implies the importance of using various strategies in providing airport retail information.
  Highlights ► Functional, experiential, and rational factors comprise air passengers' shopping motivations are identified. ► Shopper typology included apathetic shoppers, traditional shoppers, mood shoppers, and shopping lovers. ► Decision convenience is important in stimulating information seeking behaviour of passengers. ► Waiting time before boarding affects the information seeking behaviour of groups differently.
  
  PubDate: 2012-12-18T01:32:36Z
Spirituality and cultural values in the reported cognitions of female cabin attendants on Thai Airways
- Abstract: March 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 27
  
  Using qualitative semi-structured interviews, we explore the cognitions of 16 female cabin attendants on Thai Airways. Findings reveal traditional Thai cultural values underpinned by Buddhist spirituality seem influential in shaping the way they think about their service work. These influences seem to help them engage in this sincerely, so that the emotional labour they provide in line with company policy relates more closely to ‘deep’ than ‘surface’ acting. This synergy between company policy, national culture and spirituality may shape the quality of the ‘Thai charm’ provided and enhance customer satisfaction.
  Highlights ► Various factors explain high ratings for service behaviour on Thai Airways. ► Much of the behaviour of female Thai cabin attendants appears genuine. ► There is relative synergy between company policy and national culture. ► Spirituality seems to help these cabin attendants cope in an ever-fluctuating world.
  
  PubDate: 2012-12-18T01:32:36Z
Return on quality: Simulating customer retention in a flight firming project
- Abstract: March 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 27
  
  The paper presents a return on quality model designed to assess projects of service quality that can help airlines in retaining passengers. Such models can enable carriers simulate scenarios and assist management in decision-making processes, identifying the elements of performance that can lead to rejection or approval by passengers. An application of the methodology considers the flight firming project of a major airline company that had the target of improving the service quality offered in the business class booking and refunding processes, reducing at the same time the amount of denied boarding due to overbooking.
  Highlights ► Presents a return on quality model designed to assess projects involving service improvements aimed at retaining passengers. ► The appropriate flight firming strategy can substantially increase revenues and reduce costs. ► Probabilistic threshold values can be identified to assess the improvement of intangible effects of quality.
  
  PubDate: 2012-12-18T01:32:36Z
Key drivers of consumer purchase of airline tickets: A cross-cultural analysis
- Abstract: March 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 27
  
  This paper considers drivers of online airline ticket purchasing behaviour, and analyses the influence of attitude, subjective norm and perceived behavioural control on such decisions in two cultures. A number of hypotheses are examined using a sample of online shoppers in Spain and The Netherlands. We find that perceived control, subjective norm and attitude positively influence airline tickets online purchase intention in Spain, but in the Netherlands attitude is the key driver.
  Highlights ► The paper provides evidence that culture affects on-line ticket decisions. ► The theory of planned behaviour can be used to examine passenger decisions. ► A range of variables influence online purchase intentions in Spain but only attitude is important in the Netherlands.
  
  PubDate: 2012-12-18T01:32:36Z
Hub location in air cargo transportation: A case study
- Abstract: March 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 27
  
  This paper models constrained choices when establishing cargo hub and spoke networks. A mixed integer linear programming model is developed introducing additional constraints to the traditional model of uncapacitated multiple allocation hub location problem and empirically tested. The tests suggest that aircraft range and trip cost, runway availability and cargo traffic continuity of an airport are major factors affecting hub locations along with the costs of airline movements.
  Highlights ► Additional variables are added to a constrained choices model of cargo hub and spoke networks. ► Aircraft range and trip cost, runway availability and cargo traffic continuity affect hub locations. ► Selection of aircraft type and fleet planning are central in air cargo efficiency.
  
  PubDate: 2012-12-18T01:32:36Z
A method for evaluating the level of service arrival components at airports
- Abstract: March 2013
  Publication year: 2013
  Source:Journal of Air Transport Management, Volume 27
  
  This paper considers the variables influencing the level of service of the operational arrival components at airports using variables that include demand characteristics, terminal layout, the number and type of carousels, waiting time and space available. The analysis combines user monitoring techniques, data collection, simulation models, design of experiments and linear regression. Five major international airports in Brazil are used as case studies.
  Highlights ► We examine waiting time and space as they pertain to airport arrival activities. ► Studied variables include demand levels, terminal layout and the number of carousels. ► We model arriving components which represent a critical research need at airports. ► Increase in demand, airport infrastructure and operational characteristic are analyzed. ► Improvements in baggage claim area are strongly linked to baggage processing.
  
  PubDate: 2012-12-18T01:32:36Z