Spring Airlines slows expansion due to pilot shortage; strategy evolves

Spring Airlines, since its establishment in 2005, has defied the odds by growing rapidly and profitably in the heavily regulated Chinese market that favours the larger, state-owned carriers. While it has had success as the nation’s largest LCC, it has faced a number of challenges. The latest hurdle is a lack of pilots, which is forcing the carrier to curtail its growth and enact a change in strategy. [1660 words]

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This report contains the following subheadings:

• Fleet of 24 A320s, 16 aircraft on order
• China to need 72,700 pilots by 2030
• Slowing growth rate, targetting business travellers and planning JVs 
• To conduct IPO in 2011 or 2012
• Spring Airlines to establish second operating base in Shijiazhuang
• Spring Airlines' 2010 profits surge 240%

This report contains the following charts and tables:

• Spring Airlines owned vs leased for aircraft  (in service at 04-Jul-2011)
• Shijiazhuang Daguocun Airport capacity (seats per week, to/from) by carrier (04-Jul-2011 to 10-Jul-2011)
• Spring Airlines Passenger Numbers (2009 to 2011)