SENO, FLLORD MORYK R.
BS AeE 4-6
Enrichment Activity No. 5.1
a. Measuring Fleet Commonality:
Measuring fleet commonality involves assessing the extent to which an airline's
fleet is standardized or diversified. This standardization aims to streamline operations,
reduce maintenance costs, and enhance overall efficiency.
Common metrics include the percentage of common aircraft types in the fleet, the
degree of shared components and systems, and the ease of interchangeability of parts.
The higher the commonality, the more standardized and interchangeable the fleet.
b. Advantages and Disadvantages of Fleet Commonality:
Advantages: Fleet commonality offers operational efficiencies, cost savings, and
flexibility. Standardized fleets lead to economies of scale in maintenance and training,
reducing operational complexity. It facilitates spare parts interchangeability, streamlining
logistics. Additionally, a common fleet simplifies crew scheduling and training, enhancing
workforce flexibility.
Disadvantages: However, overreliance on fleet commonality can lead to vulnerabilities. A
disruption affecting a common component or aircraft type can have a widespread impact.
Diversification, on the other hand, provides risk mitigation but may incur higher training
and maintenance costs.
c. Factors to be Considered in Fleet Planning:
Aside from the module here are other factors to be considered in fleet planning.
Market Dynamics: Fleet planning requires a nuanced understanding of market dynamics.
Airlines must align their fleet composition with current and future market demands,
considering factors such as passenger preferences, route expansion plans, and market
competition.
Operational Considerations: Maintenance requirements, fuel efficiency, and technological
advancements play a pivotal role in fleet planning. Airlines must assess the operational
implications of their chosen fleet to ensure optimal performance and compliance with
industry standards.
Financial Considerations: Fleet planning involves substantial financial investments.
Airlines must balance considerations like acquisition costs, operating expenses, and
depreciation, factoring in the long-term financial sustainability of their chosen fleet
strategy.
Regulatory Compliance: Adherence to aviation regulations and environmental standards
is paramount. Fleet planning decisions must align with emissions standards, noise
regulations, and other aviation-related regulations to ensure compliance and avoid future
operational constraints.
Technological Innovation: Keeping abreast of technological advancements is crucial in
fleet planning. Newer aircraft models may offer enhanced fuel efficiency, lower emissions,
and advanced avionics, providing a competitive edge and future-proofing the airline's
operations.
Measuring fleet commonality involves assessing standardization, with advantages
including operational efficiencies and cost savings, while disadvantages include
vulnerability to disruptions. Fleet planning requires a holistic approach considering market
dynamics, operational and financial considerations, regulatory compliance, and
technological innovation to ensure a strategically aligned and sustainable fleet
composition.
References:
Brüggen, A., & Klose, L. (2010). How fleet commonality influences low-cost airline
operating performance: Empirical evidence. Journal of Air Transport Management, 16(6),
299-303.
Zou, L., Yu, C., & Dresner, M. (2015). Fleet standardisation and airline
performance. Journal of Transport Economics and Policy (JTEP), 49(1), 149-166.