LCC(Low Cost Carrier)

Today, I would like to introduce problems that LCCs have been facing. In Korea, the first LCC founded 10 years ago. In aspect of creating new demands, the foundation of LCCs is considered as one of the remarkable changes in aviation business. However, there have been small and large incidents and accidents since 10 years ago. I suppose to tell you the problems especially about safety, because every other values such as sanitary and services are based on safety.

 

The main problem is that LCCs are introducing old-fashioned aircrafts and maintenance works are not being conducted appropriately to reduce their cost. According to Korean Ministry of Land which handles aircraft operations, international operations by LCCs has increased by 359operations from 533flights to 892flights, and the percentages of transporting passengers in Korea has already passed 50percents, but their safety consciousness level is still remaining in low state.

 

Last February, a flight from Manila by Jeju Air was replaced by another plane due to cracks of cockpit's window, and Jin Air landed at an alternative airport due to slightly opened door (Does it make sense?.. because of the difference of air pressure, it is impossible), so the airline was imposed on fine because of violation. Statistically, these kind of small and large incidents and accidents have been happening every other month. Compared to the fact from FAA that most accidents are caused by meteorological uncertainty, in Korea LCC business, 70percents of accidents are related to old aircrafts and not proper maintenance work. It's a quite big problem.

 

In my opinion, LCCs are under pressure that they should offer customers low price tickets, so I can partially understand why LCCs are hesitating to spend more money on investing on safety measures, but if they don't take any actions, it is really difficult to grow their business. Even if the ticket is really cheap, if safety is not fully guaranteed, nobody wants on board. The first, second and third value that airlines should consider is safety.