The Cranky Flier Interview #34: Southwest SVP Network Planning and Network Operations Control Adam Decaire
Feb 8, 2024
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Adam Decaire, Southwest's SVP of network planning and operations, talks about merging the network planning group with operations control, creating a new schedule, improving winter performance, building mutual respect, the impact of operations on network design, and the trade-offs and benefits of recent organizational changes.
Bringing network planning under the Chief Operating Officer instead of the Chief Commercial Officer allows for a more efficient decision-making process and eliminates conflicts between commercial and operational sides.
The collaboration between operations and network planning has enhanced flexibility in routing airplanes and has led to practical solutions and increased adaptability.
Deep dives
Benefits of Combining Operations and Network Planning
Combining operations and network planning allows for a tighter feedback loop between the two departments. This alignment helps drive forward the organization as a whole and ensures that network planning and operations are aligned. The new structure allows for a more efficient decision-making process by eliminating debates or conflicts between commercial and operational sides. An example of this is the spares program, where decisions can be made quickly without lengthy discussions or disagreements. Overall, the collaboration between operations and network planning has led to improved performance and a more disciplined organization.
Enhancing Flexibility and Problem Solving
The collaboration between operations and network planning has allowed for enhanced flexibility in routing airplanes that have overwater capabilities. By utilizing these capabilities, the airline can make use of alternative routes to avoid congestion or disruptions, resulting in better operational efficiency. Additionally, the two teams have formed lightning teams, focusing on smaller problems that arise directly from operations. This approach allows for more focused problem-solving, addressing specific issues and minimizing their impact on the overall operation. The integration of operational insights into network design has brought about practical solutions and increased adaptability.
Challenges and Benefits of the New Structure
The new structure has faced some initial challenges, particularly in terms of work-life balance for employees. The close collaboration between commercial and operations, with the involvement of multiple meetings and staff sessions, has required a higher level of engagement and dedication. However, the benefits outweigh the challenges as the structure ensures alignment, facilitates communication, and drives the organization towards a shared objective. The legacy connection between network planning and other commercial groups has aided in maintaining existing relationships, while efforts are made to establish new connections between the NOC and network planning. Overall, the combination of operations and network planning has brought about positive outcomes and presents a potential model for other airlines.
Southwest has done something unique, bringing its Network Planning group -- the people who decide when and where to fly -- under the Chief Operating Officer instead of the Chief Commercial Officer. I spoke with Adam Decaire to learn more about the decision and see how it's going.
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