Question

Planes frequently push back from the gate on time but then wait 2 feet from the gate until it is time to queue up for takeoff. This increases fuel consumption and increases the time that passengers must sit in a cramped plane awaiting takeoff.
Which of the following performance metrics would, if emphasized in evaluations, incentivize airlines to engage in such practices?

a. A performance metric that measures customer satisfaction, based on customer comfort while on the plane
b. A performance metric that measures timeliness of the flight, where a flight is considered "on time" as long as the flight is boarded and away from the gate by the scheduled departure time
c. A performance metric that measures timeliness of the flight, where a flight is considered "on time" as long as the plane takes off by the scheduled departure time.

Answer 1

Answer:

b. A performance metric that measures timeliness of the flight, where a flight is considered "on time" as long as the flight is boarded and away from the gate by the scheduled departure time

Explanation:

We are told that airplanes make a mock depart by exiting the boarding gates, but they stay on the runway for long periods of time. This is due to the fact that airlines measure which planes are on time based on the moment that they left the boarding gate, not when they actually lift into the air. it happened to me once and it was extremely unpleasant to just sit without moving for more than one hour. I doubt any passenger likes these type of situations.