Airline Weekly Lounge Podcast Podcast By Skift cover art

Airline Weekly Lounge Podcast

Airline Weekly Lounge Podcast

By: Skift
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 The editors of Airline Weekly discuss the most interesting developments within the commercial airline industry. In keeping with Airline Weekly’s style, conversation generally centers on one question: How do you make money in this industry?2025 Skift, Inc. All Rights Reserved Politics & Government Social Sciences Travel Writing & Commentary
Episodes
  • Paris Air Show 2025: Highs and Lows

    Paris Air Show 2025: Highs and Lows
    Jun 26 2025
    In part one of this week's show, Gordon and Jay discuss the major developments from this year's Paris Air Show. In part two, the conversation turns to Vietnam, as we learn more about its rapidly growing airline market. Takeaways The closure of Qatari airspace has significant implications for airline operations. The Paris Air Show showcased a mix of optimism and caution in the aviation industry. Boeing's presence at the Paris Air Show was notably diminished due to recent tragedies. Embraer is facing challenges in the US market due to pilot scope clauses. Vietjet is aggressively expanding its fleet to accommodate growing demand in Vietnam. Vietnam's aviation market is on track for record traffic in 2025. New airport infrastructure is being developed in Vietnam to support growth. The competition among airlines in Vietnam is intensifying with new entrants. Foreign investment in Vietnam's aviation sector is increasing, particularly from Asian carriers. The future of new airlines in Vietnam will depend on their ability to secure aircraft in a tight market. Connect with Airline WeeklyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airline-weekly/X: https://x.com/Airline_Weekly/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/airlineweekly/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the airline and travel industries.
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    33 mins
  • The Resurgence of Virgin Australia

    The Resurgence of Virgin Australia
    Jun 19 2025
    Today Jay Shabat is joined by Meghna Maharishi to discuss the recent developments in the airline industry, focusing on Virgin Australia and its turnaround after bankruptcy. They explore the implications of Virgin's IPO, its financial health, and the impact of Qatar Airways' investment. The conversation then shifts to capacity trends for the third quarter, highlighting demand stabilization, fuel price concerns, and growth in various airports worldwide. Takeaways Virgin Australia has shown significant improvement post-bankruptcy. The airline's IPO has raised questions about its valuation. Qatar Airways' investment may open international opportunities for Virgin. Travel demand in Australia remains strong despite economic uncertainties. Capacity trends indicate a stabilization in airline demand. Fuel prices are a growing concern for the airline industry. Chicago's airport is experiencing notable growth in capacity. Charlotte airport is seeing a decline in seat availability. Vietnam is the fastest growing market in terms of airline capacity. The airline industry is facing challenges from economic factors and competition. Connect with Airline Weekly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airline-weekly/X: https://x.com/Airline_Weekly/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/airlineweekly/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the airline and travel industries.
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    26 mins
  • Grounded Ambitions: Can Spirit and Wizz Soar Again?

    Grounded Ambitions: Can Spirit and Wizz Soar Again?
    Jun 12 2025
    In this episode of the Airline Weekly Lounge, hosts Gordon Smith and Jay Shabat tackle the challenges faced by Wizz Air and Spirit Airlines. They discuss Wizz Air's struggles with engine issues, market exits, and future growth opportunities, particularly in Eastern Europe. The conversation shifts to Spirit Airlines, highlighting its financial difficulties, rising costs, and leadership changes. Takeaways Wizz Air is facing significant operational challenges due to engine issues. Spirit Airlines reported a negative 29% operating margin in Q1 2025. Non-fuel costs for Spirit Airlines have increased by 70% since 2019. Wizz Air's market strategy is under scrutiny as they exit certain markets. Indigo Partners may adjust aircraft orders in response to Wizz Air's struggles. Florida remains a key market for low-cost carriers like Spirit Airlines. Leadership changes at Spirit Airlines may influence future strategies. Wizz Air's growth opportunities lie in Eastern Europe and Ukraine. The airline industry is experiencing a combination of bad luck and operational challenges. Both airlines need to find ways to reduce costs and improve profitability. Connect with Airline WeeklyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airline-weekly/X: https://x.com/Airline_Weekly/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/airlineweekly/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the airline and travel industries.
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    36 mins
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