OAG (Official Airline Guide), the global leader in aviation data, regularly hosts webinars that serve as precise radars scanning industry dynamics. These sessions provide aviation professionals with forward-looking insights into emerging trends. This report synthesizes key takeaways from recent OAG webinars, offering expert analysis on the sector's trajectory.
1. Global Capacity Planning: The 2026 Skyline
The December 4, 2025 webinar focused on 2026 capacity forecasts, with experts Deirdre Fulton and John Grant analyzing geopolitical factors, economic development, technological innovation, and sustainability goals. Their research suggests emerging markets will reshape global aviation geography, requiring airlines to adopt flexible strategies.
2. Colombia's Aviation Growth Story
An October 23, 2025 case study highlighted Colombia's aviation boom from Cartagena to Cali. While political stability, a growing middle class, and tourism investment fuel growth, infrastructure limitations and inefficient airspace management pose challenges.
3. The Rise of Super Connectors
The September 17, 2025 session examined how select airlines and airports are becoming "super connectors" through efficient transfer services. These hubs enhance profitability while stimulating regional economic development in an increasingly fragmented market.
4. Mid-Year Aviation Review
July 25, 2025's analysis of passenger volumes, cargo yields, and financial indicators revealed strong recovery momentum despite fuel price volatility and labor shortages.
5. Tourism and Tariffs: Policy Crosswinds
June 26, 2025's discussion warned that protectionist tariffs could suppress international travel demand, while free trade agreements create favorable conditions for tourism growth.
6. Airline Financial Health Check
May 30, 2025's financial deep dive showed improved balance sheets post-pandemic, though experts emphasized continued need for cost discipline and operational efficiency.
7. Africa's Untapped Potential
The May 1, 2025 webinar identified Africa's aviation promise, constrained by infrastructure gaps and regulatory challenges. Recommendations included increased investment and regional integration.
8. U.S. Market Maturation
March 27, 2025's outlook noted slowing growth in the mature U.S. market, with customer service and brand differentiation becoming key competitive factors.
9. The New Era of Capacity Discipline
February 7, 2025's session advocated dynamic capacity management and sophisticated revenue strategies to maximize yields amid demand uncertainty.
10. 2025 Industry Forecast
December 5, 2024's annual outlook anticipated continued recovery tempered by geopolitical and macroeconomic risks, urging enhanced risk management capabilities.
Additional Key Insights
- Winter operations require strategic route adjustments and tourism partnerships (October 25, 2024)
- Australia presents high-barrier but high-potential opportunities (September 19, 2024)
- Middle East leads global growth through infrastructure advantages (July 25, 2024)
- Data analytics becomes critical for strategic decision-making (June 21, 2024)
- Sustainability pressures drive innovation in aircraft technology and fuel alternatives (July 12, 2023)
The OAG webinar series provides aviation stakeholders with vital intelligence on evolving market dynamics. As the industry navigates unprecedented challenges and opportunities, continuous learning and innovation remain essential for competitive resilience.