Routes 2024 closes, eyes set on new global connections

TDT | Manama                                                      

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Email: hussainm@newsobahrain.com

As Routes 2024 concluded yesterday, the spotlight shifted toward securing new connections and enhancing airport strategies in a competitive global market. Day three saw industry leaders tackle crucial topics surrounding air service development, passenger behavior insights, and preparations for next year’s Routes summit.

The day’s opening panel featured airline and airport development experts who shared insights into the strategic collaborations that fuel the growth of new routes.

Moderated by Evan Berg, Director of Air Service Development at Informa, the panel included industry heavyweights such as Agi Smith from easyJet, Michael Simionescu from AirAsia Group, and Henri-Charles Ozarovsky of TAP Portugal.

Their discussion focused on actionable tactics airports can implement to attract fast-growing carriers, such as leveraging data analytics to understand passenger demand, creating effective incentive programs, and overcoming the challenges airports face in competitive markets.

As Smith noted, “Successful partnerships are built on understanding what airlines need — from passenger flow to route sustainability.”

The panelists highlighted the value of collaborative marketing efforts and data-driven decision-making in route development. Simionescu added, “Airports that show a deep understanding of their catchment area and passenger behaviors have the upper hand in securing new services.”

In a data-driven world, gaining a competitive edge often relies on understanding passengers’ origins and the reasons behind their choices.