Avoid delays by having the necessary ground transportation support in place
As Covid-19 travel restrictions continue to ease, many airlines are looking at new routes for the 2022 summer season and beyond. For example, Air Canada announced its 2022 schedule, flying to key cities such as Barcelona and Reykjavik during the summer months, Icelandair added three new European routes to its network and United Airlines expanded its portfolio with five new destinations planned for summer 2022.
For airlines hoping to take advantage of travel demand in 2022 and launch new destinations, rapidly changing rules and restrictions mean the ability to move quickly is paramount to optimising demand for services and remaining ahead of the competition.
Before committing to a new destination, airlines must consider whether the route is valuable to their network. In our experience of working with global carriers, when considering a new route there are four key elements: profitability, demand, aircraft availability, and competition. Alongside these factors, the ability to start quickly and efficiently with trusted suppliers is a core component in ensuring effective operations on the ground, allowing airlines to remain competitive and dynamic.
Importance of infrastructure
Existing infrastructure at the destination can be easily overlooked. An important consideration is whether the location has the facilities and services available that support the smooth transportation of both crew and passengers upon arrival.
Without the necessary ground transport support, there is not only a risk factor associated with safety and security for airline crews but also an unnecessary administrative burden for airline operations teams. In these circumstances, using a third-party agent like global transportation management company Get-e would provide the answer, offering the required expertise while reducing the risk and operational issues.
Get-e‘s global supply chain of transfer partners provides all types of vehicles to meet each airline’s requirements, including minibusses and coaches of all sizes, alongside providing specialist suppliers that cover airside transportation in certain locations. For destinations where Get-e does not have these suppliers, it sources from the local market and adds suppliers where necessary.
Cost and reputation of ground transportation for airlines
However, before employing a ground transportation company, airlines should carefully research and consider both their reputation and cost. As large logistical costs are likely to have been incurred when launching in a new destination, it is vital that ground transportation does not increment costs further. An unreliable transfer could cause the crew to arrive late at the airport, resulting in a delayed take-off, dissatisfied customers, and financial costs to the airline. The ramification of disruption can also lead to reputational damage, which is especially detrimental when launching in a new destination.
To ensure a ground transportation company is reliable and to prevent unnecessary costs, airlines should choose a company such as Get-e, which vets its suppliers, provides 24/7 operational support, and has a trusted reputation across the airline industry. They should also consider other important aspects such as requirements for hygiene and safety standards to ensure passengers and crew are protected.
Disruption management
No matter the location, there is always the chance that flights will be delayed or diverted which often results in additional logistic management. Dealing with disruption is a difficult and time-consuming process – especially when the airline is operating in a new destination. There are usually more unknowns which can be incredibly difficult and time-consuming to manage and reputationally damaging if not dealt with correctly. This can be avoided by managing disruptions centrally, with a complete operational overview, supported by a managed network of airline experienced suppliers.
By using an external service, airlines can ensure that alternative transport is provided for passengers, all whilst being able to focus their efforts on expanding their business in a new market. In the initial stages of establishing the organisation in a new environment, it is crucial that the airline takes extra steps to ensure its launch is a success, boost its reputation and attract more travellers to fly to the location via their network.
Currently, Get-e works alongside more than 30 airline clients including legacy, low-cost, Aircraft Crew, Maintenance Insurance (ACMI), and cargo carriers, with global coverage of over 900 destinations.
Company profile
Get-e is the transport services partner for airlines, assistive travel, and business travelers worldwide. Get-e offers customers a technology-driven ground transport booking and management service with 24/7 expert support from its headquarters in Amsterdam.
Significantly reducing administration costs and time for customers with its vetted supply of service providers in more than 110 countries and 900 airports worldwide, Get-e eliminates the need to source direct suppliers in each destination. The company utilises the latest technology, including GPS tracking, and integrated mobile and web applications to automate the ground transfer booking process and provide real-time information on all journeys.
Contact us today at sales@get-e.com or via get-e.com/contact
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