Airline Weekly Lounge Podcast

By Skift

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: ... more

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FAQs about Airline Weekly Lounge Podcast:

How many episodes does Airline Weekly Lounge Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 583 episodes available.

Airline Weekly Lounge Podcast episodes:

June 19, 2025The Resurgence of Virgin Australia
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.
...more
26min
June 12, 2025Grounded Ambitions: Can Spirit and Wizz Soar Again?
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 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.
...more
36min
June 05, 2025Making Sense of the JetBlue and United Partnership
For this episode of the Airline Weekly Lounge, hosts Gordon Smith and Jay Shabat delve into the recent partnership between JetBlue and United Airlines. They discuss the implications of this collaboration, the financial struggles faced by JetBlue, and the potential benefits for both airlines. The conversation also touches on regulatory considerations, industry reactions, and the future of airline mergers. With insights into loyalty programs and advertising strategies, the hosts provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of the airline industry.
Read or preview the latest issue of Airline Weekly here: https://airlineweekly.skift.com/issues/
Takeaways
The JetBlue and United partnership is not a merger but a modest collaboration.

United aims to regain access to JFK airport through this partnership.

JetBlue is focusing on strengthening its loyalty program to recover financially.

The airline industry is experiencing significant pressure to consolidate.

Regulatory scrutiny remains a concern for any potential airline mergers.

JetBlue's financial struggles have intensified since the pandemic.

United's advertising platform could become a significant revenue source.

The partnership allows JetBlue to offer more international destinations to its members.

American Airlines is feeling competitive pressure from the JetBlue-United alliance.

The future of airline mergers is uncertain amid changing regulatory environments.
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.
...more
25min
May 29, 2025 IATA's Willie Walsh Talks Tariffs, Air Traffic Control and Oil Prices
In this special edition of the Airline Weekly Lounge, Gordon Smith shares highlights from a recent interview with Willie Walsh, Director General of IATA and former CEO of IAG. From Trump's tariffs to Russian airspace, and oil prices to sustainable aviation, you can't afford to miss this wide-reaching discussion with one of the industry's biggest names.
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.
...more
27min
May 22, 2025Ryanair's Rosy Summer Ahead
In this episode of the Airline Weekly Lounge, hosts Gordon Smith and Jay Shabat delve into the latest financial results of Ryanair, discussing its operational strategies, challenges, and future outlook. They also explore the significant aircraft orders placed by Qatar Airways, analyzing the implications of these deals in the context of the current aviation market and geopolitical factors. The conversation highlights the contrasting business models of low-cost carriers in Europe and the U.S., as well as the resilience of airlines in navigating economic uncertainties.
Takeaways
Ryanair's latest financial results show a negative operating margin due to seasonal factors.

Michael O'Leary's quotes reflect his candid approach to airline management and market dynamics.

Ryanair's summer outlook appears positive, with strong forward bookings and constrained supply.

Fuel prices are down, but Ryanair is heavily hedged against fluctuations.

Qatar Airways has placed a significant order for Boeing aircraft, indicating strong growth plans.

The geopolitical landscape influences Qatar Airways' financial strategies and operational decisions.

Ryanair's cost structure is significantly lower than that of US low-cost carriers like Southwest.

Boeing is facing challenges in meeting the high demand for aircraft, particularly the 787.

Qatar Airways is preparing for potential geopolitical disruptions with financial buffers in their budget.

The competitive landscape for aircraft orders is intense, with multiple manufacturers vying for contracts.

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.
...more
34min
May 15, 2025Can Singapore Airlines Do It Again?
In this week's show, Gordon Smith and Jay Shabat preview the latest financial results from Singapore Airlines, traditionally one of the world's most profitable long-haul operators. The pair also discuss highlights from an airline leadership conference and the latest Q1 earnings from global carriers.
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.
...more
36min
May 08, 2025Our Round-the-World Airline Adventure
In this episode of the Airline Weekly Lounge, hosts Gordon Smith and Jay Shabat take listeners on a global tour of the airline industry's Q1 earnings results. They discuss the contrasting fortunes of airlines across Europe, North America, Latin America, and Asia, highlighting optimism amidst challenges, mixed results, and shifts in consumer behavior. The conversation emphasizes the impact of oil prices, demand trends, and the overall uncertainty in the airline market as they look ahead to the summer season and beyond.
Takeaways
Lufthansa and Air France are optimistic despite negative Q1 results.

First quarter is typically weak for European airlines.

Oil prices dropping significantly is beneficial for airlines.

Demand for premium travel remains strong.

JetBlue and Frontier faced significant challenges in Q1.

Sun Country Airlines reported a strong operating margin.

Mexican low-cost carriers are struggling due to changing consumer behavior.

Latam Airlines raised their profit guidance amidst a challenging environment.

Japanese airlines are performing well but face uncertainty from trade issues.

The airline industry is characterized by uncertainty moving forward.
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.
...more
38min
May 01, 2025U.S. Airlines’ Earnings Season Recap: What the Future Holds
In this episode of the Airline Weekly Lounge, Jay and Meghna discuss the recent Q1 earnings reports from major airlines, highlighting the mixed results and economic concerns affecting the industry. They delve into the challenges faced by American Airlines compared to its rivals, the importance of premium travel, and the potential impact of economic policies on consumer spending. The conversation then shifts to innovations in aviation, including flying cars and supersonic jets, exploring the skepticism surrounding these technologies and the regulatory hurdles they face.
Takeaways
American Airlines reported losses while Delta and United made profits.

Economic concerns are affecting domestic travel demand.

Premium travel remains strong despite economic uncertainty.

Flying cars and supersonic jets are generating significant investment.

Regulatory hurdles pose challenges for aviation innovations.

Airlines are bracing for potential economic downturns.

Consumer spending patterns may shift due to economic policies.

The importance of international travel networks is highlighted.

Airlines are seeing softness in leisure travel markets.

The future of aviation may include air taxis and autonomous flying.
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.
...more
24min
April 24, 2025Korean Air's Financial Flight Path
In this episode, Gordon and Jay delve into the latest financials from Korean Air, highlighting their Q1 earnings, the integration with Asiana Airlines, and the dynamics of the cargo business amidst global trade uncertainties. They also discuss the challenges faced by Chinese airlines, including their financial struggles and the impact of international relations on aircraft orders and operations. The conversation provides insights into the evolving landscape of the aviation industry in Asia.

Go deeper with the cover story of the latest issue of Airline Weekly.

Takeaways
Korean Air reported a nine percent operating margin for Q1 2025.
Demand for passenger travel remains strong, particularly within Asia.
Korean Air's cargo business is significant, but faces challenges from tariffs.
The integration with Asiana Airlines is ongoing and complex.
Chinese airlines collectively lost nearly a billion dollars in 2024.
China Southern Airlines was the only major Chinese carrier to report a profit.
Domestic travel in China has been a bright spot for the airline industry.
Boeing's reliance on the Chinese market is diminishing due to geopolitical tensions.
Chinese airlines are increasingly dependent on Western parts for their fleets.
Korean Air is introducing a premium economy product to enhance revenue efficiency.

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.
...more
36min
April 17, 2025Delta's Q1 Earnings: Our Key Takeaways
In this episode of the Airline Weekly Lounge, hosts Gordon Smith and Jay Shabat discuss Delta Airlines' recent earnings report, highlighting a solid operating margin and the impact of tariffs and economic uncertainty on the airline industry. They explore the strength of Delta's loyalty program and the demographic trends influencing travel demand, particularly among baby boomers. The conversation also touches on the competitive landscape with United Airlines and the broader implications of fluctuating oil prices on airline profitability.

Go deeper with the cover story of the latest issue of Airline Weekly.

Takeaways
Delta reported a 4.6% operating margin for Q1.
Demand for premium travel is holding strong despite economic concerns.
Corporate travel has seen a decline compared to previous years.
Tariffs are creating uncertainty in the airline industry.
Delta's loyalty program is a significant revenue driver.
Baby boomers are a key demographic for transatlantic travel.
Delta's balance sheet is improving, providing stability.
Lower oil prices could mitigate future distress for airlines.
United Airlines is facing competition from low-cost carriers.
The overall economic outlook remains uncertain for airlines.

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.
...more
29min

FAQs about Airline Weekly Lounge Podcast:

How many episodes does Airline Weekly Lounge Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 583 episodes available.

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