Transitioning from one industry to another is never a straightforward path. It’s a journey filled with challenges, learning curves, and unexpected thrills. Coming from a finance background, I’ve spent years crunching numbers, analysing data, and making strategic decisions based on financial reports. The world of finance is intricate, logical, and, for the most part, predictable. When I decided to shift gears and enter the airline industry, I knew I was in for a whirlwind of change. What I didn’t expect was how exhilarating the ride would be.
The airline industry is a vast, dynamic ecosystem that operates on a global scale. It’s a world where customer experience, technology and operational efficiency converge. This industry is unlike any other, with its own set of rules, challenges and opportunities. Coming from a finance background, I had always associated creativity with fields like marketing, design or the arts. My previous work was heavily rooted in data analysis which is, frankly, not very creative. However, one of the most surprising aspects of transitioning into the airline industry has been discovering just how much creative thinking is required to succeed here in a way to find the best solution for the specific airline and find a way how to present it to the client in organised, yet engaging, manner.
One of the first things I realised was the sheer complexity of the industry. In finance, while complex, the systems are often centralised and standardised. The airline industry, on the other hand, is a patchwork of legacy systems, new technologies and industry standards that need to work together seamlessly. In addition, working with legacy systems alongside cutting-edge technology often involves creative problem-solving. Finding ways to integrate new solutions with existing infrastructure, or designing workarounds that maintain operational continuity, is as much an art as it is a science. This blend of creativity and technical skill is something that makes the work here incredibly rewarding.
One of the first challenges I encountered was familiarising myself with the plethora of acronyms that dominate the airline industry. Terms like NDC, GDS, PSS, PNR and DCS were thrown around in meetings, leaving me scrambling to catch up. Many airlines still rely on decades-old systems for their core operations. As someone used to the fast-paced, ever-evolving world of finance technology, adapting to the slower pace of change in airline IT systems was a lesson in patience and understanding the importance of stability in operations.
The airline industry is moving towards a retail-oriented approach, where the traditional fare-based system is being replaced by a more flexible Offer and Order system. It’s exciting to be part of an industry at the cusp of such a significant change.
The People Make the Difference
While the technical aspects of the airline industry are fascinating, it is the people who make the transition truly unique. I have been fortunate to work with colleagues who are not only experts in their fields, but also incredibly supportive.
The airline industry is very collaborative and team oriented. My colleagues have gone above and beyond to help me get up to speed. They’ve patiently explained complex concepts, answered my endless questions, and provided guidance without overwhelming me with unnecessary details. It is also very helpful that each one of them comes with different knowledge and experience from different areas of the industry, which gives me insight into a wider scope of topics and insights.
This willingness to share knowledge and support newcomers is something I’ve come to deeply appreciate. It’s not just about getting the job done; it’s about bringing everyone along on the journey. This culture of mentorship and collaboration is something I’ve found to be highly emphasised in the airline industry.
Many conferences that the industry offers are a goldmine for anyone new to the industry. Networking at these events is instrumental in understanding the bigger picture of how the industry operates. Even though my first attendance at a conference is yet to happen, I am very much looking forward to engaging with professionals who have spent decades in the industry to provide me with insights that no textbook or online course could offer. These conferences highlight the importance of collaboration in the industry. Unlike finance, where competition can be cutthroat, the airline industry thrives on partnerships – be it between airlines, technology providers or regulatory bodies.
The Perks of Travel: Fuel for Personal and Professional Growth
Another delightful aspect of working in the airline industry is the travel opportunities. Of course, I knew travel would be part of the job, but I underestimated just how enriching it would be – not just professionally, but also personally.
Professionally, travelling has allowed me to experience at first hand the complexities of global operations. Visiting different clients, meeting with international colleagues and understanding the unique challenges faced by airlines in various regions have given me a broader perspective on the industry. It’s one thing to discuss global operations in a conference room, it’s another to be on the ground, seeing how things work in different parts of the world. This hands-on experience has deepened my understanding of the industry and improved my ability to contribute meaningfully to projects and strategies.
On a personal level, the travel opportunities have been equally enriching. Visiting new cities, experiencing different cultures and meeting people from all walks of life have broadened my horizons in ways I hadn’t anticipated. Travel has always been a passion of mine, but working in the airline industry has taken it to another level. It’s not just about ticking destinations off a list, it’s about truly engaging with the world and growing as an individual. The travel perks of working in the airline industry are more than just a benefit – they’re an integral part of the job that fuels both personal and professional development.
Conclusion
Transitioning to the airline industry has been an exhilarating and transformative experience, far beyond what I ever imagined. The industry’s complexity, coupled with the surprising need for creative problem-solving has challenged me in new and exciting ways. The supportive, collaborative environment has made the learning curve manageable, while the opportunity to travel has enriched both my personal and professional life. Ultimately, working in the airline industry is a thrilling adventure — one that continuously pushes me to grow, adapt and embrace the ever-changing landscape of global aviation.
This post has been published in collaboration with Terrapinn.
Leila Rešidbegović, Travel in Motion AG