ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the role of the aviation industry in tourism as a global phenomenon that is responsible for enabling people to travel to destinations worldwide. It has been the principal driver of international tourism growth. The chapter explains the structure and organization of the aviation sector and the role of airports in the handling of tourists as travellers. Key trends in the airline sector and the importance of the low-cost airlines as a new business sector, including its significance in Europe and Asia, particularly China. Market leaders such as South West Airlines is examined as an exemplar of business development in the USA along with the principles that make it a successful business. The chapter also examines the way in which airlines market their businesses to travellers.
