| Abstract |
The strategies adopted by both legacy and low-cost airlines have met substantial transformations, adjusting some of the important features of their business models, reflected in a continuous process of mutual influence. Factors like the liberalization of air traffic, the rescission of government policies, abandonment of state aid, the privatization of some airlines, etc. have produced important changes in the companies' strategies. The converging evolution of business models of LCC and legacy airlines, the partnerships and alliances between companies represent the cornerstone for the authors' research. Thus, the paper emphasizes the main features and the impact of low-cost carriers on the market dynamics and on the development of regional airports or on route development for improved connectivity. Also, the changes in consumer behaviours and a social network analysis will be researched. A long term strategy for airlines, competitively sustainable planning, consisting on diversification and flexibility of tariffs and services will create a stable bridge between low-cost and traditional carriers, and will meet the requirements of a good airline-airport relationship, the demands for economic and tourism growth, which will implicitly led to the development of new jobs. |
