Evaluating the strategic design parameters of airports in Thailand to meet service expectations of Low-Cost Airlines using the Fuzzy-based QFD method

Abstract The proliferation of Low-Cost Airlines (LCA) has phenomenally increased across the globe bringing a paradigm shift in the business model of airports specifically integrating the requirements of LCA. The current study attempts to evaluate the strategic design parameters of the airport integrating the requirements of LCA. The Fuzzy based Quality Function Deployment (QFD) approach has been utilized to conduct a House of Quality analysis for the integration of the voice of LCA in the design characteristics of the airport. The findings of the study identify evaluated design parameters of the airport for integrating the LCA requirement. It has been observed that the studied airport has been fulfilling the LCA requirements. However, few minor improvements are expected especially with regard to airside facilities, aeronautical tariff and other criteria. The study demonstrates and signifies that the Fuzzy based QFD method is a promising and pragmatic decision-making tool for customer-oriented airport strategic planning.

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