Customer value factors of VLG air taxi passengers : the case of Switzerland
Type
conference paper
Date Issued
2009-07-27
Author(s)
Abstract
The introduction of very light jets could induce significant changes in the business aviation industry. The possible emergence and persistence of very light jet air taxi operators is among the most discussed effects. By adapting the customer value model for very light jet air taxi passengers, this paper aims at helping practitioners and presenting a useful framework for further research on the customer preferences of those operators. By combining a review of the relevant literature, a grounded theory analysis of the offerings of very light jet air taxi operators and four expert interviews, fourteen key factors are identified that supposedly influence the customer value of those operators. These key factors are linked to the customer value model to produce an adapted model as its operationalisation. The model is then specified for the main target group on the basis of an internet-based survey among business travellers from all over the world. By evaluating simple-stated and hidden preferences, the relative importance of the key factors is estimated. It was found that risk factors have the highest importance, when business air travellers are directly asked about their choice of a very light air taxi operator. Based on a hidden preference analysis, business travellers' most important factor is total travel time.
Language
English
Keywords
Air taxi services
very light jets
customer value
customer preferences
HSG Classification
contribution to scientific community
Refereed
Yes
Book title
2009 ATRS World Conference
Publisher
Air Transport Research Society
Start page
18
Event Title
13th Air Transport Research Society (ATRS) Conference
Event Location
Abu Dhabi
Event Date
27.-30.07.2009
Subject(s)
Division(s)
Eprints ID
55947