An airline’s ability to stay punctual affects various areas, including operational costs, workforce efficiency, passenger schedules, and broader economic outcomes. Timeliness in flight schedules significantly boosts passenger productivity and supports the global economy. Conversely, flight delays can lead to missed connections, disrupted meetings, and lost opportunities, while timely flights enhance travel experiences and foster customer loyalty.
According to disruptions cost the airline industry approximately 8% of its total revenue, amounting to an estimated $60 billion annually. For instance, Delta CEO, Ed Bastian disclosed that the airline has refunded over 11 million tickets, amounting to $6 billion (R106.6 billion), since the start of 2020, with 20% of refunds issued in 2022.
Bastian also highlighted measures taken to enhance passenger experiences during delays or cancellations, such as offering extra miles and adjusting schedules. A by CMAC group found that nearly 46% of UK travelers reported that their experiences with flight delays or cancellations, coupled with the service received, reduced their likelihood of choosing the same airline for future travel. On-time performance plays a crucial role in ensuring smoother airport operations, efficient resource utilization, and reduced environmental impact, all of which contribute to economic sustainability.
The OAG (OTP) metrics provide insights into the arrival and departure punctuality of over 500 global airlines and 1.