Airport recovery post COVID-19 is enveloped in uncertainty. As highlighted by The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) in figure 1, the trajectory of recovery is unpredictable and can take any course. In response to the unstable nature of recovery, airlines are employing over-optimistic scheduling and then withdrawals, leading to multiple revised ‘Actual Schedules’. For airports, amongst other factors, this high degree of uncertainty can especially have a significant impact on operational resource planning, such as infrastructure and staff, which in turn can impact capital planning.
What does this mean for European regional Airports?
Regional airports play a vital role, not only feeding the hubs but providing important connectivity across Europe and contributing to local, regional, and European economies. It is essential that these airports operate efficiently and plan for the uncertainty to recover from the loss of traffic caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Case Study Impact Analysis on Resource Requirements
AiQ Consulting has conducted a case study analysis of a typical regional airport in the EU to determine the impact of variable schedules and load factors on resource requirements.
For the sake of simplicity in this case study, we have focused on ATMs and passengers leaving aside the analysis and findings on baggage, cargo and ground handling.
In this case study analysis, you will find three key findings focussing on:
- Rapid approach to capacity limits
- Elasticity of schedule – a small change in schedule, significant impact on resources
- Impact on varying load factors
Findings on the impact of COVID-19 on Resource Requirements?
Here is an example of the findings from our analysis on the impact of COVID-19 on resource requirements based on a typical regional European airport. To read the full findings, click on the link to download the informative paper.
DOWNLOAD THE AIRPORT RECOVERY 2020 REGIONAL AIRPORT RESOURCE ANALYSIS