Unlocking The US Domestic Airline System: Operational Vs Commercial Implications

The discussion will seek to draw out the key underlying challenges with today’s system and look to ways of “fixing” it.

Part One: Commercial implications for the market

• How effective have the majors segmented fares been in combating LCC and ULCC competition?
• Can the ‘big three’ continue to meet margin goals even where fuel prices rise back to higher levels?
• What are the development and cost challenges facing the domestic market and are policy makers listening?
• As low cost competition increases, how is this affecting network planning and route development?

Part Two: Operational implications for the market

• Are US airline and airport infrastructure and service levels appropriate to what US consumers and communities should expect?
• What impact does this have for airlines on the competitive access environment?
• What funding solutions can be learned from overseas experience to improve standards?
• What steps can be taken to help medium sized airports recover connectivity?
• Would a national aviation policy be of value?

Moderator: CAPA – Centre for Aviation, Advisor, John Thomas
Panel:

• A4A, SVP, Legislative and Regulatory Policy, Sharon Pinkerton [Download Presentation]
• ALPA, First Vice President, Bob Fox
• American Airlines, Vice President – Operations & Industry Affairs, Lorne Cass
• Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, International President, Sara Nelson
• PASSUR Aerospace, President & CEO, James T. Barry
• Sun Country Airlines, President & CEO, Jude Bricker