Key Reasons Why Small Airlines Should Consider a Cabin Retrofit
Table of Contents
Introduction
In today’s competitive aviation industry, small airlines face various challenges to differentiate themselves from their larger competitors. One way to achieve this is by investing in a cabin retrofit. This blog post will explore the operational, financial, and branding benefits that a small airline can gain from a cabin interior redesign.
Operational Benefits
• Simplified maintenance and inventory management: Standardizing cabin interiors across the fleet means that the airline only needs to keep a single set of spare parts for all cabin furnishings, such as seats, galley equipment, lighting, and so on. This reduces the complexity and cost of inventory management and makes it easier to maintain the aircraft.
• Streamlined services: Integrating technology that streamlines services and simplifies crew tasks can greatly improve the efficiency of in-flight operations. For example, installing touchscreen displays can make it easier for crew members to access important information and perform tasks, such as taking meal orders or processing payments.
• Enhanced crew training: With a standardized cabin retrofit design, crew members only need to be trained on a single layout, making the training process simpler and faster. This can help reduce training costs and improve crew proficiency.
• Punctuality: With crew members able to move easily between different aircraft, they can perform tasks more efficiently, reducing the time needed for turnaround and improving flight punctuality.
• Versatility: A redesigned cabin can provide a more versatile and reconfigurable space, allowing the airline to adapt to changing passenger needs and accommodate different aircraft models.
• Improved baggage handling: A redesign can improve access to overhead compartments and luggage compartments, making it easier for crew members to handle baggage and reduce the risk of delays due to baggage issues.
• Compliance: A cabin retrofit can help airlines comply with new operational regulations, such as improved emergency exit lighting or enhanced safety features.
Financial Benefits
- Cost savings: Standardizing cabin interiors can result in significant cost savings, as the airline can purchase materials and equipment in bulk, taking advantage of volume discounts. Additionally, the use of durable materials and finishes can reduce maintenance costs and extend the lifespan of cabin components.
- Increased revenue: A redesign can allow for the installation of more seats, increasing passenger capacity and potential revenue per flight. Additionally, a well-designed cabin can attract more business travelers, who are willing to pay premium prices for a more comfortable and convenient flying experience.
- Better utilization of space: A redesign can optimize the use of space onboard, allowing for more efficient storage and cargo capacity, resulting in increased revenue from cargo and baggage fees.
- Fuel efficiency: The use of lighter materials and optimized cabin design can reduce fuel consumption, lowering operating costs and helping the airline to be more environmentally friendly.
Branding and Image Benefits
• Familiarity for passengers: A consistent cabin retrofit across the fleet creates a familiar experience for passengers, making them feel more comfortable and at ease when flying with the airline.
• Consistent brand image: A standardized cabin design helps to reinforce the airline’s brand identity and maintain a consistent level of quality across all aircraft.
• Improved passenger experience: A redesign can incorporate new features, such as USB ports, personal screens, and improved lighting, to enhance the passenger experience and meet the evolving needs of modern travelers.
• Differentiation: A unique and innovative cabin retrofit can help a small airline differentiate itself from its competitors and establish a strong brand presence in the market.
• Categorization: A redesign can help improve the airline’s classification or category, positioning it as a premium carrier with a high-quality product offering.
• Fleet renewal: If the airline has an aging fleet, a cabin redesign can help modernize the aircraft and provide a more coherent brand image.
Examples of small airlines that have successfully implemented a cabin retrofit
Mokulele Airlines: Mokulele Airlines is a small regional airline based in Hawaii that operates a fleet of nine-seat Cessna 208B Super Cargomaster aircraft. In 2017, the airline underwent a cabin retrofit that included new seats, improved lighting, and updated in-flight entertainment systems. The redesign aimed to provide a more comfortable and modern experience for passengers while also reflecting the airline’s Hawaiian culture and brand identity.
Cape Air: Cape Air is a small regional airline based in Massachusetts that operates a fleet of Cessna 402C aircraft. In 2018, the airline underwent a cabin retrofit that included new seats, improved lighting, and updated in-flight entertainment systems. The redesign aimed to provide a more comfortable and modern experience for passengers while also reflecting the airline’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Contour Airlines: The regional airline updated its fleet of 19-seat Embraer E120 planes in 2017 with ergonomic seats, wider aisles, and personal entertainment. Contour saw an over 20% rise in ticket sales following the redesign.
Azores Airlines: This Portuguese regional carrier focused on light cabin retrofit like refurbished seats,mood lighting, music and improved food service starting in 2010. It reported an increase in repeat customers and revenue per flight.
Silver Airways: Silver Airways is a small regional airline based in Florida that operates a fleet of Saab 340B aircraft. In 2018, the airline underwent a cabin retrofit that included new seats, improved lighting, and updated in-flight entertainment systems. The redesign aimed to provide a more comfortable and modern experience for passengers while also reflecting the airline’s commitment to customer service and satisfaction.
Calm Air: Calm Air is a small regional airline based in Canada that operates a fleet of Bombardier CRJ-200 aircraft. In 2019, the airline underwent a cabin retrofit that included new seats, improved lighting, and updated in-flight entertainment systems. The redesign aimed to provide a more comfortable and modern experience for passengers while also reflecting the airline’s commitment to safety and customer satisfaction.
Sun Country Airlines: The low-cost carrier redesigned its 57-seat Boeing 737-400 planes in 2014 with premium leather seats and increased amenities. Sun Country saw a double-digit rise in passengers and per-flight revenues after the refresh.
Spirit Airlines: Spirit Airlines, a low-cost carrier based in the United States, upgraded its cabin with lightweight seats that are designed to be more fuel-efficient. The airline also installed larger overhead bins to increase storage space and improved cabin lighting to enhance the passenger experience. These upgrades have helped Spirit Airlines save money on fuel costs and improve customer satisfaction.
Ryanair: Ryanair, a low-cost carrier based in Ireland, refurbished its existing seats to make them lighter and more comfortable. The airline also installed new in-flight entertainment systems that are connected to passengers’ personal devices, reducing the need for bulky seatback screens. These upgrades have helped Ryanair reduce weight and improve the passenger experience without incurring significant costs.
AirAsia: AirAsia, a low-cost carrier based in Malaysia, refurbished its existing seats to make them more comfortable and added more legroom. The airline also installed new in-flight entertainment systems that are connected to passengers’ personal devices. These upgrades have helped AirAsia improve customer satisfaction and increase its market share in the region.
These are just a few examples of very small airlines that have successfully implemented a cabin retrofit. Each airline has its unique approach to the redesign, depending on its brand identity, target audience, and business goals. However, they all share the common goal of enhancing the passenger experience and creating a modern and comfortable atmosphere on board.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a cabin interior redesign can bring numerous benefits to small airlines, including simplified maintenance, improved operational efficiency, cost savings, increased revenue, and enhanced brand image. By investing in a redesign, a small airline can differentiate itself from its competitors, improve its passenger experience, and establish a strong presence.
