Emerging transformations in the air transport sector in the post-COVID-19 era

The geographical and mobility impact of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis on tourism has proven very important if not cataclysmic at a world level. In fact, the entire business ecosystem and related operations are profoundly affected, when it comes to health and hygiene, safety, and trust issues, with a corresponding change in the behaviour and expectations of tourists. A major pillar of tourism, such as air transport, experienced an unprecedented year in 2020, recording a major decline of international tourist arrivals due to COVID-19 quarantine measures, travel bans, and border closures. Therefore, air transport companies should reconsider their business models and operational standards to effectively deal with the economic impact of the pandemic crisis; meet the emerging needs of the customers; and gain their trust. It is essential to introduce health and safety protection measures in accordance with international norms; to undertake operational changes such as network reshuffling and fleet management; to focus on advanced methods in demand forecasting; and to invest in integrated digital transformation. These changes may lead to cost reduction, revenue maximisation, and customer reengagement, thus helping the sector in its turnaround process and recovery. This chapter analyses all the previously mentioned issues and contributes with proposals and good practices in the air transport business transformational roadmap.