Sunshine and storm clouds

Aviation’s challenges and opportunities are what we make of them

The aviation and aerospace industry might be at times costly, frustrating and complex, but it is never boring. 2015 is likely to be no different with the interesting juxtaposition of lower oil prices alongside a retreating resources sector. These opportunities and challenges will not remain static so the future direction of both will be monitored very closely by all.

Regional aviation appears to be experiencing a period of consolidation with some long-term players leaving the industry. The released demand is being picked up by existing, experienced carriers. The one worrying aspect of these changes is that regional aviation is attracting very few new operators. As has been mentioned in this column before, the barriers to entry for new regional operators remain very high and must be lowered if we are to maintain a diverse, vibrant and growing regional industry in the long term.