Managing Uncertainty in the Airline Industry: The Interaction of Strategic Flexibility, Organizational Learning, and Dynamic Capabilities

Abstract

The airline industry is one of the sectors characterized by being highly competitive, dynamic, and uncertain. In addition, the constantly renewed, growing structure and vulnerability to conjuncture of the sector usually renders the sector unstable and unpredictable. In such this environment, one of the most important strategic tools airline companies can use to keep their activities sustainable is increasing their strategic flexibility levels. In this context, this study aims to reveal whether dynamic capabilities mediate the relationship between organizational learning and strategic flexibility in the airline industry. In the research model, the Process Macro plugin, which was developed by Hayes and integrated with SPSS software, was used to analyze the mediating effects proposed. The results indicate that there are positive effects between organizational learning, dynamic capabilities, and strategic flexibility in the airline industry. Furthermore, the study reveals that dynamic capabilities mediate the relationship between organizational learning and strategic flexibility. These results highlight the importance of developing dynamic capabilities and organizational learning in enhancing strategic flexibility in the airline industry.

Authors

• Durak, Mehmet Sahin Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
• SENGUR, Ferhan, Prof. Dr. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Keywords

• Airline industry
• Strategic flexibility
• Organizational learning
• Dynamic capabilities
• Business Administration, Management, and Operations
• Strategic Management Policy
• Tourism and Travel