Challenging the interline and codeshare legacy: Drivers and barriers for airline adoption of airport facilitated inter-airline network connectivity schemes

Network connectivity has always been under the sovereignty of airlines until a few years ago when a small number of airports embarked on challenging that legacy and introduced the first so-called airport-led transfer schemes. Although the viability and future of airport-led transfer schemes that entail an airport-airline-co-operation is heavily dependent on airline participation, their role and what could promote or impede their adoption decision is generally absent from academic literature. Therefore, this paper analyses the potential drivers and barriers for the airline adoption of airport facilitated inter-airline network connectivity schemes. In order to achieve this, a case study research strategy was employed and the triangulation of qualitative and quantitative data was attained through a combination of literature, interview and survey research that was guided by the innovation diffusion theory. Findings suggest a total of 23 key drivers and barriers that directly and indirectly influence the airline adoption of airport facilitated inter-airline network connectivity schemes. Beyond those individual drivers and barriers, three main research findings of strategic relevance for the future diffusion and airline adoption of such schemes can be identified: Limited awareness, divergent attitudes and the schemes obsolescence risk.