2020 is destined to be a busy year for aviation, with the industry currently undergoing a paradigm shift on many levels.
Business leaders must adapt to the changing face of the world, and those in aviation very specifically. Let's take a look at how some innovative companies have been hit by the health situation.
With collaboration, waiting times are eliminated
Long waiting times are a problem. All commercial aircraft operate on a set schedule. Whether it's a first-class or economy trip, everyone will arrive at the same time. Commercial aircraft operate at selected airports and, due to their size, have to wait to use the large runways. This always means congestion. Anyone who flies regularly knows exactly what it is like to wait on the runway, so collaboration with the best agents in the world is needed to ensure that all flights get the proper permits and time slots.
However, private jets can access thousands of airports across the country. They can use shorter runways, fly on less congested routes, and depart exactly when they want. The customer sets the schedule, which means faster flights.
Combination of cargo flight and private jet
Given the current situation, private aviation and executive charter services are operating without delay. They can globally enable the delivery of the growing demand for resources and products. In fact, these companies have worked tirelessly during the weeks of confinement throughout Europe, striving, among other tasks, to supply PPE to the population. In this supply, priority has been given to both hospitals and the public sector in the manufacture and supply of face masks, respirators, gloves and, of course, hand sanitizer. A relentless demand for protective equipment that is likely to continue until a vaccine can be developed.
All of this has led to a new combination between cargo travel and private jet charter, also simultaneous to the significant increase in e-commerce. All of this has led to a change of focus for companies, which transport vital supplies and equipment to where they are most needed.
More flexibility and security
Collaboration with the cargo and private jet industry means that more executives are required to visit three or four cities in a single day, which is not possible with any other mode of transportation.
There is also the issue of health safety for senior executives, for whom flying by private jet is the only viable option after the health crisis. Recent media reports claim that Apple CEO Tim Cook has stopped flying on commercial airlines. Apple now requires CEO Tim Cook to fly on private jets for "all business and personal travel," according to a regulatory filing on Wednesday.
Also, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Disney CEO Bob Iger rely on private jets for all their travel, as detailed in their companies' most recent filings. It is widely accepted that the reason for these decisions is firmly based on the flexibility and security of private aviation.
Investment in research and advanced business planning
Many organizations are already well advanced in their digital transition, adapting to changes in consumer behavior and rebuilding trust by investing in technology where needed for the new normal.
Integrated digital identity solutions are one possible solution and the key to contagion-free travel. They also allow organizations to leverage information to efficiently assess a person's risk profile, allowing them to manage risks in real time and save business travelers time and money.
The digital passport was already in development, but the effects of the pandemic are accelerating this process. Now, the study is to integrate elements such as your face and body, as well as decentralized identity. This means that the individual owns and controls their identity attributes, such as their date and place of birth and physical characteristics; but also travel history, health information and other data.
Collaboration is essential
At this time of unprecedented change, governments and industry have a unique opportunity to redefine travel and build a more sustainable, agile and resilient industry. This would not be possible without collaboration with the various players in the aviation industry.
