Airline Industry Analysis

Innovations in transportation and telecommunications have introduced a number of opportunities for companies of all sizes and types to optimize their transportation networks. This paper provides a description concerning the design of a logistics network that consists of only one warehouse. A discussion concerning what steps will need to taken in order to design the optimal network is followed by a description of the information and data that is needed to make this determination. Finally, an assessment of the strategy will be employed in this network is followed by a summary of the research and important findings concerning these issues in the conclusion.

An ideal SCM integrates all aspects of logistics in a rapid manner attempting to achieve the objectives by using who, what, when, where, and why (the 5Ws) for accuracy and success. The focus of this literature will cover the history, functions, modifications and future of SCM, while also considering the literature and preceding research that was conducted in each area. This paper will enhance the readers’ understanding of the SCM in general along with the process and concepts of the subject. It will also enable readers to apply aspects of SCM in their respective line of business. The literature for this review is relative, ranging from one to three years old. Organizations must understand that Supply Chain Management can increase the company’s EBITA (Earnings Before Interest Taxes Amortization) or decrease it if used properly. An additional benefit of an optimal SCM is optimizing time from production to customer, which can increase customer base when the industry notice speed of delivery to customers.

During last two decades, the importance of logistics has been noticed around the world. In global markets, the effects and further developments of logistics and supply chain management for corporate success has increased significantly that result in a large amount of companies have taken actual benefits in logistics, such as reducing costs, enhancing customers ' satisfaction and increasing sales. However, some people are confused with the relationship between logistics and supply chain management. Therefore, this essay will argue that logistics management and supply chain management are not exactly the same in operations because of the scope where utilized and some specific activities are similar, but some are different. In the end, this essay will also talk about the reasons for logistics management is an important strategy to manufacturing or service companies.

Due to the large quantity of freight and the long distance that it must travel to arrive to its destination exporters and importers alike have found logistic service providers essential to engage in international trade (Rodriguez, Comtois, Slack, 2013). While some Logistics service providers focus only on the area of transportation others specialize in freight consolidation, distribution management, and warehousing (Robinson, 2014). They have enough market knowledge, information and communication systems to offer supply chain solutions tailored to the specific needs of any company be it small or large (Rodriguez, Comtois, Slack,

After six consecutive years of profitability, the U.S airline industry was descended into a downward spiral. The number of passengers flying dropped from 56 million in August 2001 to 30 million in September with no passengers for two days after the attacks (Poling). It took three years for the airlines to reach the 56 million passenger mark again. The impact on the travel industry, specifically the airlines, was more severe than in other areas.

Buyer power has changed significantly in the airline industry over the last 20 years due largely to industry deregulation and technological innovation related to the impact of the Internet. Prior to deregulation, the Civil Aeronautics Board’s control over pricing and airline routes gave the consumer very little power as it did not provide the choices of unregulated competition. If consumers did not like the prices available for air travel, they were forced to look for substitutes, none of which offered a similar value proposition as the airline industry.

The trend line is a indicator that gives an idea about long-run performance of an industry. Key trend area to look into in terms of the airline industry is cost. The airline industry is very sensitive to cost such as fuel, labor, and borrowing costs. Fuel prices tend to fluctuate on a monthly basis. It is very important to pay close attention to these costs.

As higher demands continued to be placed on GMM’s production and distribution operations, its transportation network lacked collaboration. In effect, each operation was making individual logistics decisions, creating costly redundancies and inefficiencies throughout the supply chain. However, On-time delivery is critical in their business, and they consistently meet their customers' requirements. With cost, service and punctuality always at the forefront, consolidates shipments, manages carriers, and optimizes air, sea and ground routes. (Penske, 2010)

Airlines use a formula of combining their yield and inventory costs to determine ticket prices. While it is imperative to focus on the idea of being profitable, the focus is to maximize the cost of the flight revenue. One huge factor that encourages an increase in the cost of tickets relates to a customer ordering a ticket close to the departing date, define this as a risk factor because they need to make up for all unsold seats. A high percentage of the revenue is dedicated to overhead costs such as fuel and labor. When a ticket price is higher with one airline than the other, the customer interprets this as being an excessive cost. The demand is greatly affected by the external market

(Bowersox, D.J., Closs, D.J., and Cooper, M.B. (2010). Supply Chain Logistics Management. (3rd Edition) New York, NY: McGraw-Hill/Irwin.

In terms of liquidity Delta is not doing so well. Their current ratio has deteriorated consecutively the past four years and is the lowest in the past decade at .49. Delta’s Quick ratio of .35 reported in the last quarter is concerning considering anything below 1 may be an indicator of bankruptcy. Furthermore, their quick ratio has decreased by an annual average of about 5% in the past decade. (The quick ratio is particularly important in evaluating a company in the airline industry because they are capital intensive.) While the industry generally has lower quick ratios than others, Delta’s is significantly lower than the industry average reported in 2012 as 4.68.

One of the world’s most competitive and prominent industries is the airlines industry. It generates huge amounts of income as well as employment each year. Some of the common names in US air travel service providers are Alaska, Northwest, Southwest, US airways, American etc.

Closely linked to economy - The airline industry can be described as highly cyclical since it

Indeed use of third-party logistics (3PL) firms in transportation helps firms to meet complexities of global trade, worldwide increased competition, as well as the constant downward pressure in terms of prices and margins. This is in a bid to build up better logistic systems that can fulfill their needs for better services at a lower cost. Among the reasons as to why companies use 3PL firms is to outsource non-strategic activities which enables organizations to concentrate on the major competencies as well as to exploit external logistics expertise, (Ivan Su Hertz, Susanne, 2009). These third party firms have the capability of developing unique assets, acquiring the necessary resources and achieving superior logistics performance using 3PL relations. Companies therefore find it efficient and effective method of achieving the needed service with no engaging so much in investing new capabilities and in assets upon entering into a relationship with 3PL firms.

» Understand the importance of an efficient distribution and logistics management system in not only reducing the costs for a retailing company but also in