The Business of Aviation--Due Monday, March 30th

Throughout the semester we have had several speakers representative of the diverse businesses and business models found in the world of aviation.  Most aviation companies are facing the growing challenge of adapting to a changing market and the changing needs of a potential customer base.  .  Aviation businesses face numerous challenges that range from increased regulations, the addition of security requirements, unpredictable fuel costs, and ever advancing technology.   For this week’s blog, address the following issues.

1. What is the rationale behind the cliché, “How do you make a small fortune in aviation?  Start with a very large fortune.”  What are your thoughts on how this catchy little phrase came about, and why is this phrase increasingly relevant? Use pertinent information from aviation business plans, and examples of failed or struggling aviation business to address this question. 
2. Given the negative nature of question #1, identify some positive business strategies that upstart aviation business may employ.  Identify some successful companies in your discussion.  Why are these companies successful?

This blog is worth 40 points.  Remember to include at least 6 references and comment on at least three other blogs. 

 

Dr. D

Leveling the Global Aviation Playing Field--Due Monday, March 16th (40 pts)

Last week, Bill Hoffer spoke about a career in the airlines as well as some of the issues facing the industry due to global competition.  In the United States, the industry is facing several challenges or “threats” to maintaining a competitive edge in the global market.  These challenges are especially patent for the airlines.  Examples of some of these “threats” are tax policies, fuel costs, cheap labor, the rapid growth of airlines in countries that formerly did not compete, the looming pilot shortage, an uneven playing field and other political issues.

Your assignment is to research the topic and examine at least four articles, from reputable sources, that address the current global aviation situation and how the U.S. is compelled to compete.  From your research, present three thought-provoking issues.  (Please do not focus on the pilot shortage.)  Post these issues on your blog and present a brief discussion of each.  Provide your ideas and opinions.  Your discussion might address the following questions.  How do you feel about the issues?  Do you agree with the authors?  What do you think are plausible solutions to the issues?  How might these issues affect you in the job market? 

Include links to your articles in your blog post.  In addition, cite your sources at the bottom of your blog post.  

Have at it!

Dr. D