THE EDITOR, Sir:I HAVE just returned to Jamaica after working abroad for many years in the maintenance department of a very large airline company.
It seems to me that the airline business is very complex and competitive, but does not require a rocket scientist to make it successful and profitable.
Take Air Jamaica, for example, a great airline with lots of possibilities for growth, and which plays a vital role in our tourist product and employment. However, the company needs to start thinking beyond the current and win back its creditability and become profitable. Here are some suggestions starting from the top:
Everyone must be responsible for the condition of the company, but the captain of the ship needs to be changed sometimes soon to avoid a crisis. This gentleman is in denial. He has promised his directors and the taxpayers of this country to make a profit for years, but has never delivered. The people want less talk and more action.
The company needs to be transparent. Shuffling staff and reducing salaries is only a quick fix and will not help the situation long-term. Someone needs to come to grips with the critical issues or they will be in for a rude awakening.
The 'on time airline' needs to cut back on the non-profit routes, get rid of the dinosaurs, and bring in new blood. They need to project for a larger portion of the market share, so that they will become profitable and be able to pay their staff more, which will give them more incentive and encouragement.
The company needs to reorganise its maintenance department and adequately stock it with spare parts.
Creative advertising, profitable projections, a tough financial controller, and directors with no conflict of interest is a must.
The government needs to address the crime issue and stimulate the economy, and the JTB, JHTA and the other islands in the region need to show support and work closely together in saving this great airline.
Walk good.
I am, etc.,
CHRIS SULAY
Patterson Avenue
Rose Hall
