EDITOR ’ S BRIEFING
As we enter into the new year , many of us pledge to become a ‘ new , improved me ’ by committing to a more frugal and disciplined way of life , particularly because of the excesses in which we indulge during the holidays and their aftermath ( more gym and walks , fewer carbs and beers ).
But , talking about a coming ‘ new me ’ in aviation , I can ’ t help but think about what is next for Spirit Airlines , after it filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy late last year . The airline , which once was called the ‘ home of the bare fare ’, plans to introduce a restructuring plan in the first quarter of the new year , highlighting that it will “ move away from its traditional budget model .”
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In other words , it seems that flying ‘ simply ’ is not always the best option for travelers and investors .
Will this mark the beginning of the end for the low-cost model in aviation ? Certainly not , but it is a sure sign of the challenges ( and changes ) lying ahead for budget airlines , as their cost structure is more sensitive to rising operational costs , higher Pilot wages , and increasing competition . In the opposite corner , legacy carriers have turned up the pressure by offering basic fares that rival those of lowcost carriers , while providing more amenities and perks .
Whatever comes next for Spirit in 2025 , it is evident that there is still space for consolidation in the US airline industry , and Airways will be there to bring you the latest developments .
Meanwhile , in this issue , we feature the launch of a ‘ new me ’— the Airbus A321XLR , taking to the air with Iberia as the launch customer . The Spanish carrier is betting part of its transatlantic business model on a narrow-body and offering a new premium product that emphasizes the Airbus Airspace cabin . Although the aircraft ’ s design is tailored to meet the demands of modern air travel , the manufacturer may consider more ergonomic and crew-friendly layouts as this new variant of its best-selling aircraft reaches maturity .
As usual , my email is open for your feedback and critiques . Also , don ’ t forget to check out our website www . airwaysmag . com for the latest news on commercial flight .
Clear skies ,
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FEBRUARY 2025 | VOLUME 31 | NUMBER 12 | ISSUE 333
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