In these challenging times, primordial shifts are occurring in the aviation sector, prominently among low-cost airlines. Driven by the exceptional economic events spawned by COVID-19, these airlines are compelled to reconsider their operations, leading to significant cutbacks. A driving example in this context is Ryanair, a leading low-cost European airline that is gearing up to receive no less than 210 new Boeing 737 MAX aircraft.
#### The Noteworthy Stance of Ryanair
Remarkably, Ryanair’s shift becomes potent when scrutinizing its procurement approach. Instead of canceling their heavyweight order, the airline decided to augment their fleet with new planes leading to reshaping the future strategy of the low-cost airline industry.
Ryanair’s move to invest in new aircraft, even amidst a panoptic industry dive, marks a surge in long-term planning. The Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, known for its fuel efficiency and low operating costs, harmonizes with Ryanair’s strategic focus – reducing operational expenses for an affordable travel experience.
#### Dealing with Financial Restraints
In an era where most airlines are steering themselves out of economic turbulence, the focus has overwhelmingly been on conservation of resources. Some airlines, such as the all-business class La Compagnie, have suspended their operations temporarily to abate the financial bleed. Wizz Air, another low-cost airline, deferred the delivery of 32 Airbus planes citing the unforecasted situation.
While airlines strive to keep their heads above water, the resurrection of travel remains a distant reality. Therefore, airlines are focusing on preserving cash flow through measures like employee retrenchment, leading to increased unemployment in the airline industry.
#### Banks Playing Their Part
Banks, as an essential part of the aviation ecosystem, are contributing to the cause by postponing loan repayments. Notably, Flybe, a UK regional airline, is discussing potential deferral on outstanding debt with the UK government and its owners including Virgin Atlantic. This move, although a preventative measure to avoid complete cessation, had stirred controversy in the aviation industry asserting that it may set an unhealthy precedent.
#### The Environmental Perspective
From an environmental viewpoint, older planes are typically retired during such economic downturns, a decision that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and noise pollution. Including Boeing 737 MAX in their fleet, low-cost airlines such as Ryanair, seek to enhance their green credentials. Thus, despite the challenging circumstances, the economic downturn may incidentally bolster the environmental sustainability efforts in the aviation industry.
In summary, the aviation industry’s landscape is rapidly transforming in response to the pandemic. The various strategies implemented by low-cost airlines, ranging from fleet augmentation to suspending operations and seeking debt relief are collectively emblematic of an industry struggling yet acclimating to survive the crisis. Despite the existing challenges, the current crisis might provide an unintended push towards environmental sustainability in the aviation sector.
