Overview
Airline transits have evolved into a preferred mode of transportation by travelers (Doganis, 2001). Airlines provide faster traveling options and safe transfers from one destination to another. In Saudi Arabia, traveling is considered a major activity for Saudis. There are several reasons that can be attributed to the increase in air travel in the country. Several business executives travel to attend company events and dealings. Students are also on the traveling bandwagon, as education becomes a priority in some regions.
It is evident that Saudi Arabia has become a major destination for workers from other countries and tourists. Saudi Arabia has a huge labor demand and millions of foreign workers come in and out of the country. On a more important note, Saudi Arabia has emerged as a tourist destination. The country’s rich history and tradition attract several tourists. In addition, Saudi Arabia continues to improve in terms of peace and order. These reasons are sufficient to push the demand for air transportation upward.
Company Background
The operations of Saudi Airlines started in the mid 1940s. During the firm’s maiden years, the operations are primarily concentrated on domestic flights. The Company gradually expanded the flights to cater to foreign demand. Initially, Saudi Airlines existed as a state-owned firm. In 200, however, the government has decided to open the study for future privatization. The company has been active in improving services by obtaining ISO certification and constantly changing the service provided to customers (Saudi Airlines, 2008).
At present, Saudi Airlines has the biggest fleet in the country. The recent modernization activities have introduced new airplanes to the company Saudi Airlines has spend $6 billion to upgrade the fleet by adding 61 new aircraft. Aside from the usual air transportation, Saudi Airlines also caters to individuals and firms that require cargo transportation. The company has a reliable cargo system that ensures commodity transfer without delays and damages. In addition, the company is also involved in catering services.
The Hajj
In the Muslim world, the Hajj is considered the grandest event. The Hajj is a pilgrimage to Mecca and part of the pillar of Islam. Muslims are required to undergo this process and the event attracts millions of believers worldwide. The event happens during the 8th to 12th day of the Dhu Al-Hijjah, which is the 12th Islamic month (Shariati, 2005). Although the Gregorian conversion varies, the event usually happens during the month of December. Some 2-3 million followers flock to Mecca to participate in this event.
Given the bulk of travelers during the month of Hajj, the demand for air travel also increases. This seasonal increase is critical in ensuring future company success. The Hajj is important for the airline industry in Saudi Arabia. The event provides the needed demand to boost revenues. Hajj is an event that commands global attention and admiration. A successful staging of the event will further boost the credentials of Saudi Arabia as tourist destination. The Hajj is also an opportunity for airlines to show their capacity. In this event, the market leaders are clearly identified by customers.
Statement of the Problem
Saudi Airlines experience several problems during the staging of Hajj. The most common complaints from clients include flight cancellations and difficulties in the reservation. In addition, it is observed that the sudden increase in travelers causes delay flight departures (Air Transport Department). The huge number of passengers also causes airports to be crowded. This provides discomfort, which is disliked by most passengers. Moreover, travelers complain about misplaced and lost baggage. Both local and foreign tourists experience these problems.
The subject being discussed provides several points of interest. The subject to be discussed will focus on Saudi Airlines’ efforts to provide quality transport service. The proposed research title involves the correlation of the Hajj to the problems experienced by Saudi Airlines in providing services. Saudi Airlines have been receiving several complaints during the year for numerous reasons. But the most interesting part involves the volume of complaints received during each month of the year. It is important to known if their significant difference in complaint volumes during peak and off-peak months.
The purpose of the study is to determine the varying volume of complaints received by Saudi Airlines. The data for the study will come from two sources. The first source will be Saudi Airlines’ complaints record. The second part comprises survey results provided by actual passengers. The most evident relevance of the study involves the potential action to be taken by Saudi Airlines to resolve the rising volume of passenger complaints.
References
Doganis, R., (2001), The Airline Business in the 21st Century, New York: Routledge.
Shariati, A., (2005), HAJJ: Reflection on Its Rituals, California: Islamic Publications International.
Air Transport Department, (2008), Rules and Regulation Governing the Carriage of Pilgrims by Air.
Saudi Airlines, (2008), About the Company, Web.