The global air transport industry is experiencing a remarkable period of growth, set to achieve its fifth consecutive year of improving profits in 2016. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) predicts that airlines will generate a staggering $39.4 billion in profits, marking a significant increase of nearly 12% compared to the previous year’s $35.3 billion. This surge in profitability is attributed to a combination of factors, including low oil prices and rising passenger demand. With the economic crisis of the past decade behind them, aeronautical companies have seized the opportunity to revolutionize their operations, foster synergies, and explore new avenues for value creation.

According to the IATA, two key factors have driven the airline industry’s continuous upswing. Firstly, the significant drop in oil prices, which have plummeted by over 50% in just two years. However, this decline has only translated to a relatively modest reduction of just over 10% in fuel prices, which still account for 19.7% of the industry’s expenses. Secondly, passenger demand continues to soar, albeit at a slightly lower forecast rate of 6.2% in 2016 compared to the previous year’s 7.4% growth.

The increasing demand for air travel presents a positive outlook for the aeronautical industry as a whole. This growth necessitates expanding capacity and the replacement of aging aircraft with newer, more fuel-efficient models. In 2016, airlines are set to receive around 1,900 new aircraft, with half intended to bolster existing fleets and the other half representing modern replacements. Recognizing the need for faster returns, airlines are increasingly embracing new technologies. Mario Brossa, CEO of the Teoresi Group, highlights the industry’s growing focus on implementing cost-cutting technologies and reducing time-to-market, an area where the automotive industry has excelled. Such considerations are now becoming crucial for commercial aerospace companies and the military alike.

Competition for contracts across Western Europe is fierce, posing particular challenges for Italian companies aiming to gain international recognition. Many larger players require a certain annual turnover before engaging with a company, a prerequisite that small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) often struggle to meet. Matteo Vazzola, technical director at TPS Aerospace Engineering, emphasizes the importance of networking and structural capacity, highlighting France and Germany as more established markets in this regard.

Despite these challenges, SMEs in Italy possess distinct advantages that are often lost as companies expand. These advantages include flexibility, less bureaucratic red tape, and the ability to provide tailored solutions to clients. Davide Fusta, new business development manager at Alfa Meccanica, stresses the importance of vertical integration, as larger customers seek suppliers who can offer comprehensive solutions, including systems and subsystems, in addition to components. Silvio Marioni, managing director of Tekspan, notes that while Italy’s industry may be smaller compared to other European countries, it excels in niche applications and demonstrates interesting capabilities.

The global airline industry’s impressive profitability trend reflects the resilience and adaptability of aeronautical companies. With the combination of low oil prices and growing passenger demand, airlines have seized the opportunity to revamp their operations and explore new technologies. However, challenges remain, especially for Italian SMEs seeking international recognition and large contracts. By leveraging their flexibility and niche capabilities, Italian companies can carve out a valuable position in the competitive aerospace market. As the industry continues to evolve, it is imperative for companies to embrace change, foster synergies, and seek innovative solutions to remain at the forefront of the global aviation sector.