Ireland's flag carrier Aer Lingus has entered into a contract with IBS Software Services (IBS) for the implementation of the latter's Manpower Management (MPM) solution to manage cockpit and cabin crew.

Crew cost represent a significant percentage of the airline's total cost base, an IBS spokesman said here while announcing the deal.

SPECIAL FOCUS

It is therefore an area of special focus as airlines increasingly search for new ways to remain competitive in a sensitive and rapidly evolving business environment.

MPM is a strategic business planning tool which helps airlines plan and manage its crew deployment.

The solution will help Aer Lingus plan cost effective and efficient operations of its fleet, with an optimal level of properly trained and appropriately qualified crew.

The solution goes way beyond the traditional thinking in the area of airline crew management, the IBS spokesman claimed.

CREW COSTS

It enables faster and smarter crew allocation decisions, leading to a reduction in crew costs through improved recruitment process, training plans and crew movement profiles.

Aer Lingus, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, operates scheduled flights to 75 destinations across 22 countries.

It is the second airline and the first in Europe to opt for the IBS solution since the latter's launch last year.

EXTENSIVE R&D

The IBS solution is a culmination of extensive research and development work over a period of 14 months.

It involves inputs from four global airlines — Air Astana, easyJet Airlines, Malaysia Airlines and Qatar Airways.

The spokesman quoted Mr Fergus Wilson, Chief Operating Officer, Aer Lingus, as saying that the airline was looking forward to a successful partnership with IBS.

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