ABSTRACT
Similar to Chapter 17, this case study presents simulation study of an airport. The main objective of this case is to study the impact of additional aviation traffic flow on airport infrastructure. The following represents some recent and new trends that will affect the transportation industry in general and airlines in particular.
Small Aircraft Transportation System (SATS) – SATS was originally proposed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). SATS represented an innovative program intended to provide travelers with a safe and affordable traveling alternative to current transportation systems. SATS will be discussed in more details later in this chapter.
Fractional Ownership Programs – because of growing security issues with the airlines and airports, besides the presence of problems and delays caused by these security concerns, some companies have moved to Fractional Ownership Programs. In this program, companies with many business travelers jointly purchase and maintain small jet(s). Based on their contribution to this program (fraction), these companies will use the aircraft for their business travels. According to the FAA’s definition, the fractional ownership program is possible when an individual or corporation purchases at least 1/16 share of an airplane. The aircraft is then placed in a ‘pool’ to share with other owners of aircraft. The pooled aircraft are managed by a company that provides aviation management services with the necessary expertise for the owners.
Air Taxis – Because of the growth in the demand of small jet aircraft, we have witnessed an increase in the number of their manufacturers. These companies utilizing advances in aircraft manufacturing, avionics, and falling component prices have been able to offer small jets (4–8 seaters) at very reasonable prices. A large number of entrepreneurs have placed orders for these aircraft to start up air-taxis in various parts of the nation. These start-up companies use regional airports and provide full service to their passengers. Some of these air-taxis promise a one-hour advance call for the service. Once the passenger(s) calls, the air taxi sends a car to pickup the customer(s) from their home or work place. The car then drives the passenger(s) to the nearest regional airport. The waiting jet will fly the passenger(s) to their destination (in most of the cases, another quiet regional airport). At the destination, the process repeats again, with a waiting car taking passenger(s) to their homes or businesses. All this at the price of a first-class airline ticket! It is anticipated that with increased competition, increased demand, and falling aircraft prices, this service will be offered at the current airline’s economy fares.
