Tunisair's Financial Woes: Can the National Carrier Really Open New Long-Haul Routes?
Tunisair's delicate financial situation is no longer a secret. It has significantly impacted the quality of the national carrier's services. Social media has reacted with irony to the announcement by the Ministries of Transport and Tourism to study the opening of new routes, including strategic destinations like Beijing. Beyond these reactions, the question remains: is such a project really feasible?
The answer is yes, but it comes at a cost and implies strict conditions to avoid it becoming a financial black hole.
The Main Obstacle: Availability of Suitable Aircraft
The primary hurdle is the availability of aircraft adapted for long-haul flights. The most accessible solution is leasing. For example, the monthly leasing cost of an Airbus A350, an aircraft suitable for such routes, amounts to approximately $1 million. With an average capacity of 350 seats and a flight time of around 13 hours between Tunis and Beijing, the aircraft could ensure a round-trip rotation every two days.
Economic Feasibility
Based on an average ticket price of $600 and a 50% occupancy rate, the monthly revenue could reach $3.15 million. This level of revenue would not only cover leasing, insurance, and crew costs but also generate a profit, provided there is effective marketing.
In theory, the project can be profitable. However, a major obstacle remains: the potential lack of financial credibility of the company with leasing companies. As a public enterprise, Tunisair inherits the country's modest financial rating, which complicates access to various types of foreign currency financing.
A Pertinent Initiative, but with Conditions
The initiative to study the feasibility of new routes is relevant, but it must be accompanied by in-depth analyses, conducted on a case-by-case basis. Meanwhile, it is essential to improve existing regular lines, as the company's image remains a key factor in the success of potential long-haul routes.
