The ‘Megathemes’ to Watch at this Year’s Skift Aviation Forum

The Skift Aviation Forum is shaping up to be the industry event of the year. On November 12, we’ll be joined in Dallas by an all-star list of CEOs, company presidents, and other top-level players. 

My colleagues Meghna and Becca have covered many specifics we’ll discuss at the event. From fleet planning and digitalization to labor and production issues – we’ll be drilling deep into some of the industry’s biggest topics.

No two on-stage sessions are the same, but I expect there will be several dominant topics that will crop up time and again throughout the day. To borrow (and modify) a Skiftism, I’m coining these as our ‘Megathemes’. Here are just a few to look out for at the Skift Aviation Forum 2024:

#1: True Sustainability

Mention sustainability, and environmental concerns likely spring to mind. However, in the commercial airline sector, the term’s wider meaning spans economic and operational stability. The dream for almost every carrier is long-term profitability through cost-efficient operations, robust business models, and investments in workforce development to tackle talent shortages. Social sustainability, such as improving employee wellbeing and enhancing community engagement, are also becoming bigger priorities as the industry seeks to build trust and bolster its public image.

#2: Cost and Pricing Pressures

Airlines of every shape and size are facing significant cost pressures. There are multiple factors at play, with rising labor costs, supply chain disruption, and inflation-driven increases. To maintain – or in some cases to achieve – profitability, ancillary fees and optimizing route networks are the order of the day. Balancing higher costs with competitive pricing remains a challenge for the industry as it navigates fluctuating demand and ever-changing passenger expectations.

#3: Industry Consolidation

The concept of airline mergers and acquisitions is nothing new, but the current aviation landscape is particularly ripe for consolidation. In the U.S. and abroad, we are seeing a reshaping of the competitive landscape as financially strained carriers seek mergers, alliances, and new partners to thrive, or even survive. Some of the largest international airlines are proactively expanding through acquisitions, while smaller or regional operators face pressure to consolidate or find niche markets.

#4: Supply Chain Headaches

Airlines are grappling with well-documented supply chain disruption, affecting everything from aircraft and engine deliveries to spare parts availability. Delays in manufacturing and shortages of key components have forced almost every major airline to adjust fleet plans. Few have been immune to the slowing down of modernization efforts. These headaches are driving up costs and creating inefficiencies, further complicating growth strategies.

#5: Digital Transformation

The digital revolution in airlines is continuing at breakneck speed. AI-driven platforms are transforming operations and the passenger experience. From customer service to predictive maintenance, data analytics are enabling airlines to hyper-personalize services and optimize revenue management. This progressive shift toward automation and digital tools is helping tech-savvy airlines slash costs, improve decision-making, and meet the expectations of modern travelers.

Full details about the Skift Aviation Forum 2024 can be found here, or simply reserve your seats below. We look forward to seeing you in Dallas on November 12.