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Opinion | Aviation sector must be aware of the risks as pandemic abates
- Rapidly evolving travel requirements, unruly passengers, cyber threats and a chronic pilot shortage are just some of the challenges facing airlines
- Some mergers are likely as the sector slowly reopens but, overall, aviation is well-poised for recovery
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The aviation sector was forced to make changes when the Covid-19 pandemic hit. Planes were grounded, operations cancelled and employees sent home. Under such circumstances, the sector not only adapted swiftly to the shock but also claimed its position as a critical contributor to crisis resolution.
Globally, operators raced to convert or adapt passenger aircraft for cargo missions. Airlines such as Korean Air, Cathay Pacific and Garuda Indonesia expanded their dedicated cargo fleet of aircraft with passenger-converted freighters.
Smaller planes took on a new critical role of delivering supplies and vaccines to otherwise isolated locations. Standard operating procedures were rewritten, and challenges were resolved in the downtime to prepare for a new way of working.
However, in the wake of an unstable air travel recovery amid new Covid-19 variants and increasing global vaccination rates and travel corridors, the aviation sector needs to review all aspects to propel the sector forward.
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Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific Airways reports US$977 million loss in first half of 2021
Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific Airways reports US$977 million loss in first half of 2021
Airlines have moved to a more contactless, digital experience, from online check-in and baggage tagging to meal bookings. Artificial intelligence has taken over roles which traditionally have needed employees, such as baggage handling, airport apron service and ground services.
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