In aviation, the peak season begins every year on April 1, and with it usually come problems. These issues typically stem from airlines and airports being unprepared and from a lack of foresight. While last year’s peak season was marked by significant operational challenges, the same was not the case this year.
And the reason is clear: the previous year was dominated by major global operations such as the UEFA European Championship and the Paris Olympic Games. In contrast, 2025 did not include similarly large-scale events, allowing the aviation industry to experience an almost flawless peak season.
So, why did everything go so well?
Aviation is an extremely dynamic industry. One day you may be at the bottom, and the next you find yourself at the top. This is not something any individual can fully control. The industry largely moves, evolves, and regulates itself. Managers and employees do not direct these shifts; they support the sector and the organizations they work for.
The aviation industry adapts to global developments as they unfold. Wars, economic crises, and climate-related challenges all directly influence how the industry performs.
No one can genuinely claim, “I took over this company and suddenly the numbers improved.” Some airports break records without even having a CEO, while in other cases, individuals with little aviation background find themselves in leadership positions. Has anything truly changed?
It couldn’t have.
Passenger demand and global developments determine the industry’s trajectory, not individuals.
Could any airline or airport manager have predicted a war between Israel and Iran? Could they have foreseen aircraft becoming stranded or airspace shutting down overnight?
Aviation governs itself. It gains or loses momentum depending on the global winds blowing at the time.
That’s why the impressive numbers achieved during peak seasons belong to the industry itself. I have great respect for the workforce, but without the sector’s natural push, nothing can truly be made to happen.
The good news is that this year is expected to break records.
The industry continues to surpass its pre-pandemic 2019 figures.
Hopefully, even better days lie ahead.
Safe flights. ✈️