Airlines Confidential Podcast 285 - Guest Co-Host: Christina Cassotis, Guest: John Pepper, VP/Corp. Development, Allegiant Air
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Apr 30, 2025 Christina Cassotis, the dynamic CEO of the Allegheny County Airport Authority, co-hosts with John Pepper, VP of Corporate Development at Allegiant Air. They dive into the regulatory hurdles stalling Allegiant's alliance with Viva Aerobus after three years. Discussion also touches on the airline industry's financial health, the operational readiness for new airports, and the rising challenges low-cost airlines face in the post-pandemic landscape. Tune in for insights on the future of low-fare aviation and the complexities of the ongoing pilot shortage.
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Include Operators Early for Success
- Involving airport operators in system design avoids pitfalls like Berlin’s fire alarm issues.
- Practical input from firefighters, plumbers, and tech staff ensures operational readiness and safety.
Low Fare Airlines Face New Challenges
- Post-pandemic, low fare carriers face rising costs and reduced margins despite growth.
- Network airlines capture leisure markets, forcing value airlines to up-gauge and struggle with large aircraft load factors.
Low Cost Alliance Benefits Explained
- Allegiant’s alliance with Viva Aerobus aims to fill leisure route gaps and offer affordable fares.
- Antitrust immunity is critical for coordinating capacity, pricing, and crew between partners.