This post is A Simple Guide to Understanding Commercial Airline Operations
Hello, curious minds! Today, we'll embark on a journey through the fascinating world of commercial aviation based on my experience at MYAirline, Malaysia's latest customer-centric low-cost carrier. If you've ever wondered about the intricate dance of logistics, coordination, and technology that takes place every time you fly, you're in the right place! So fasten your seatbelts, stow your tray tables, and prepare for take-off as we demystify the operations of a commercial airline.
Behind the Scenes
When we think about airlines, it's easy to picture just the planes and pilots. But there's a lot more going on behind the scenes! Here's a glimpse:
Air Traffic Control (ATC): ATC is like the conductor of the sky orchestra, guiding every plane's movements in the air and on the ground. They ensure all flights take off, cruise, and land safely without colliding with each other. However, they are not affiliated with an airline but rather with the airport.
Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO): Airplanes need regular check-ups and fixes, just like our cars. MRO crews ensure planes are in top condition, safe and ready to fly. Some commercial airliners have their own MRO facility while others would contract service providers at various hubs.
Ground Services: Ever noticed those busy bees on the tarmac when your plane is at the gate? They're refuelling the aircraft, loading/unloading baggage, and catering your in-flight meals. They work against the clock to ensure quick turnaround times between flights. Like MROs, some commercial airliners have their own ground handling which makes for operations to be centered around their aircraft. However, they too can be contacted as service providers to airlines who require ground handling support from companies like Menzes, Swissport, dnata, to name a few.
The Flight Experience
Let's explore what goes on during the flight, from check-in to landing:
Check-In and Security: Upon arriving at the airport, passengers check in for their flight, drop off their luggage and pass through security. This process ensures only authorized persons board the flight, maintaining aviation safety. Airlines usually have their own ground personnel at check-in counters as part of their ground operations team. However, some would require additional support from ground handling service providers at other stations. To add, security does not only involve a locality's customs but also airline security themselves like flight marshals and ground security units.
Boarding: Once the aircraft is ready and all necessary checks are done, passengers board the plane. The cabin crew guides passengers to their seats, assists with luggage, and ensures everyone's safety and comfort. This process requires a tango between ground personnel at the boarding gate and the cabin crew on board to ensure a smooth boarding process.
Take-Off: With clearance from ATC, the pilots taxi the plane to the runway and take off. During this phase, pilots adhere to strict procedures to ensure a safe ascent. Even before, pilots perform checks to ensure all settings and indicators are where they need to be.
Cruising: At cruising altitude, the autopilot mostly takes over. The cabin crew serves meals, refreshments, and ensures passenger comfort throughout the flight while pilots monitor weather changes and stay alert for any flight path changes and surrounding air traffic. During this time, they also prepare certain documents required after landing.
Landing: As the plane approaches its destination, pilots begin the descent process, navigating with ATC's help, and finally land the plane. Ground handlers will then take over with below-wing handling once the aircraft is parked at the apron.
Staying On Schedule
Keeping flights on schedule is a complex task. Airlines must manage many variables, like weather changes, mechanical issues, and air traffic. Modern airlines use sophisticated software to keep track of their fleet, adjusting as necessary to keep everything running smoothly. However, many delays are caused due to factors outside their control. Hence, it is very important for passengers to understand every decision made is for the overall safety of everyone.
Safety First
Safety is the cornerstone of aviation. From the rigorous training of pilots and cabin crew to the strict maintenance schedules of the aircraft, every detail is aimed at ensuring safe journeys. Sometimes, pilots may delay the flight due to ad-hoc maintenance requirements, ATC congestion, bad weather (at the departure and/or arrival airport) among others. Next time you're on a plane, remember, you're in very good hands!
And there you have it! From the hustle and bustle on the ground to the calm cruising altitudes, there's a lot more to flying than meets the eye. So, the next time you board a flight, you'll appreciate the many moving parts working harmoniously behind the scenes to make your journey possible. What's your favorite part of flying? Share with us in the comments below!
(Please note that my work in aviation is merely in the commercial division, this article is a simplified overview of complex procedures and processes. Actual airline operations involve even more depth and detail.)
Isn't the world of aviation exciting? We hope you enjoyed this little flight of fancy through the world of commercial airline operations! Happy travels!