ABSTRACT
Schedules represent one of the primary products of an airline and certainly the leading factor in a passenger's choice of a particular carrier. Scheduling is one of the most vital functions in the business—as important as forecasting, pricing, fleet planning, or financing. External factors must be taken into consideration by the scheduling department. Many airlines use the committee system, in which officials from all operating departments meet to analyze the proposed schedule, make suggestions, and resolve conflicts between departments. The primary purpose of the maintenance organization of an airline is, of course, to provide a safe, salable aircraft for every schedule. Ground service can be arranged in any conceivable schedule pattern, provided that there is no limitation on the gate positions, ground equipment, passenger service facilities, and personnel. Many aspects are rigidly governed by specific regulatory or contractual requirements, such as those relating to maintenance of equipment, and working conditions of flight crews, as discussed earlier in the chapter.
