Market investigation for Smart Route Planner

Background

Thales initiated a comprehensive market investigation, exploring the implications of Single Pilot Operations (SPO) and hybrid airplanes on aviation route planning. The primary focus was to evaluate the viability of introducing the Smart Route Planner, a groundbreaking flight planning idea/prototype, to the market. The investigation extended to determining the strategic approach for its introduction: standalone, integration with an existing Flight Planning System (FPS), or through acquisition and adaptation of an FPS.

Scope and Collaboration

The project delved into an industry anticipating the emergence of hybrid planes and the evolution of single pilot flights. Extensive collaboration with dispatchers, pilots, and aviation experts provided insights into the evolving responsibilities of dispatchers within this dynamic landscape. Over 600 specialists across North America and Europe were engaged to solicit diverse perspectives.

Key Objectives

1. Smart Route Planner Evaluation:

   • Assessing the potential value of the Smart Route Planner to determine its market feasibility and strategic fit within the aviation planning landscape.

2. Hybrid Plane Industry Possibilities:

   • Investigating the possibilities presented by hybrid planes, an emerging technology in the aviation sector, and discerning its impact on route planning.

3. Single Pilot Operations Exploration:

   • Analyzing the evolving landscape of single pilot flights to understand their implications on aviation planning and market dynamics.

4. Strategic Market Entry Considerations:

   • Evaluating the feasibility of building a proprietary Flight Planning System, developing a compatible plugin, or exploring acquisition opportunities for seamless integration.

Results and Strategic Insights

The investigation aimed to provide Thales with a roadmap for navigating the aviation market’s future possibilities. Key insights included market dynamics, potential entry points, and optimal timing for venturing into aviation planning for hybrid planes and single pilot operations. The collaboration with industry specialists enriched the understanding of evolving needs and expectations.

Conclusion

Thales’ foray into the future of aviation planning exemplifies a strategic initiative to anticipate and adapt to emerging technologies. This case study highlights the meticulous market investigation process, collaboration with industry experts, and the pivotal role of strategic insights in shaping Thales’ approach towards the dynamic landscape of single pilot operations and hybrid airplanes in the aviation sector.

Contributors and Roles

• Louis-Philippe Bellerose - User experience researcher
• Noémie Lemaire - User experience researcher

Tools Used

• Miro
• LinkedIn Sales Navigator
• Sharepoint