Strategy Simulation

Airline

Experience the dynamics of strategic decision-making with our strategy simulation, Airline. It’s an effective and engaging way to illustrate the practical application of strategic concepts. With Airline, students learn to manage all facets of a regional airline, apply business strategy in a realistic context, and understand the impact of their decisions in a competitive market.
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Join our growing community! Airline has been trusted for over a decade by 300+ schools of all types to bring real-world experience into the classroom.

What is Airline?

Our Strategy Simulation, Airline, is a dynamic and engaging learning tool for business strategy classes. It provides instructors with a tangible way to teach and assess theoretical concepts. Students gain an immersive experience, applying their knowledge in a realistic context while developing critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership skills.
The simulation exposes students to the interconnectedness of business functions and their strategic implications. It’s not just about learning – it’s about doing. As decision-makers in their own virtual airline, students navigate uncertainty, manage resources, and work to achieve business objectives. This hands-on approach enhances understanding and retention of key strategic business concepts.

WHY IS Airline THE RIGHT strategy SIMULATION FOR MY STUDENTS?

Airline is designed with the following learning goals:

Planning & Analysis

Identify strategic options. Write a strategic plan. Monitor implementation of plan. Analyze competitive performance.

Business Environment

Identify target segments in Airline. Match aircraft with target segments. Evaluate new business opportunities. Understand risk mitigation. Respond to a changing environment.

Human Resources

Implement advanced employee training. Develop competitive compensation strategies. Maintain consistent quality programs.

Marketing

Identify the 4 Ps of marketing. Explain impact of discounts and promotion. Use appropriate mix for target markets. Adjust marketing to customer needs.

Operations Management

Identify factors in efficient operation. Maximize aircraft reliability. Manage aircraft scheduling. Maintain profitable load factor.

Corporate/Finance

Respond to ethical issues in business. Analyze financial performance. Project financial needs. Fund capital investment.

Teamwork

Allocate responsibilities fairly. Complete assigned tasks on time. Communicate problems and plans. Collaborate with other team members.

Experiential Learning

Test ideas in a low-risk environment. Respond to and discuss unexpected events. Retain information through hands-on experience. Relate sim topics to real-world scenarios.

CLASSES

Business Strategy
Strategic Management

DIFFICULTY LEVEL

Intermediate

AUTHORS

Peggy Golden, Jerald Smith,
Mike Deighan

FIRST-TIME INSTRUCTORS USING AIRLINE SIMULATION

At Interpretive, we understand that running a simulation in your class may require some support. That’s why we are committed to providing you with exceptional customer support. Our experienced customer support staff consistently receive top ratings from our customers. Here’s what you can expect from us:

  • A dedicated Customer Relationship Manager who will be your go-to person for any support-related questions or concerns.
  • A team of customer support staff who are always ready to help you and your students.
  • We promise to respond to any support request or question within 24 hours during the business week, so you can be assured that your needs will be met promptly.

First-time instructor planning a class using our strategy simulation.
Short Demo Video of Strategy simulation, Airline.

Request your demo access to learn more about our strategy simulation.

ASSESSMENT TOOLS

Combining our simulation Airline with our quizzes and assignments gives you the tools to assess your students’ understanding of the concepts of strategy. The following grading rubric works best to provide a thorough assessment of your students’ knowledge and understanding.
Assignments0%
Simulation Results0%
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ASSIGNMENTS MODULE

Experience the convenience of fully online simulation assignments with our strategy simulation, Airline! With our innovative Assignments Module, there’s no need for PDFs or downloads. Assignments are easily accessed and completed through a user-friendly online interface. Plus, some tasks can be auto-graded, saving valuable time for instructors. Getting started is simple – we provide a comprehensive guide and video tutorial to familiarize you with the interface. Alternatively, you can explore it on your own after login. For further details, feel free to contact us!

Got questions? Find answers!

Which classes is this simulation suitable for?

Airline is designed for use in undergraduate strategy courses, capstone strategy courses, and any classes focusing on strategic decision-making. The simulation immerses students in an environment characterized by uncertainty and the necessity for strategic change. All decisions are driven by the students’ strategy, which can be adapted as they navigate the simulation. The element of competition against classmates adds another layer of realism and unpredictability.

What is the ideal team size for the simulation?

We typically recommend teams of 3-4 students for optimal collaboration and decision-making. Teams larger than four members might face coordination challenges, while smaller teams of two may lack the diversity of opinion and constructive disagreement that enriches the learning experience. However, the team size can be adapted to suit your class’s specific needs.

How does Airline facilitate learning about strategy?

Airline provides a practical platform for students to apply strategic theories learned throughout their business program. As students make decisions and observe their impact on simulation outcomes, they gain a hands-on understanding of strategic decision-making in a business context.

What is the duration of the simulation?

The simulation can run for a minimum of six periods and a maximum of 12, although we recommend between 8 to 12 for a comprehensive experience. As the airline industry is subject to seasonal demand variations, the simulation periods are structured quarterly, allowing students to respond to and plan for environmental changes.

How do I find out more?

Sign up for Demo Access. This gives you access to Sample Course Sites, Resources, and even a look at completed games. For a comprehensive understanding, schedule a call with our staff to guide you through the simulation.

Schedule a call with us to ask any other questions you might have!

Discover why instructors choose Airline as their preferred
Strategy Simulation!

  • The fact that we have been using the game three times a year for decades now shows that we have not been able to find a better alternative. The strong points of the game are that it is very motivational and all in all it seems to reward the best performing teams. Furthermore, the support of the company is perfect: answers are always provided within a working day.

    Herman Wassens, Stenden University

  • I have seen the difference in my students work as a result of their experience with the simulations and it helps prepare them to manage and balance multiple variables in a real business. The support that Interpretive Simulations provides is excellent as well; and recommend them highly.

    Clint Vogus, Arkansas State University

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