MAP - Modified Access Pricing
Modified Access Pricing (MAP) is a pricing mechanism used in the aviation industry to allocate airport slots and capacity to airlines. It's a modified version of the traditional first-come, first-served (FCFS) system, which can lead to inefficiencies and congestion at busy airports.
In a traditional FCFS system, airlines are allocated slots based on the order in which they request them. However, this can result in:
- Inefficient use of airport capacity: Airlines may not always use their allocated slots efficiently, leading to wasted capacity and congestion.
- Inequitable distribution of slots: Airlines with more resources and better connections may be able to secure more slots, while smaller airlines may struggle to get a fair share.
Modified Access Pricing addresses these issues by introducing a pricing mechanism that rewards airlines for using their allocated slots efficiently. Here's how it works:
- Airlines are allocated slots based on their historical usage and efficiency.
- Airlines are charged a fee for each slot they use, with the fee increasing for each additional slot they use.
- Airlines are incentivized to use their allocated slots efficiently, as they'll be charged more for using additional slots.
The goal of MAP is to:
- Encourage airlines to use their allocated slots efficiently, reducing congestion and increasing airport capacity.
- Promote a more equitable distribution of slots, giving smaller airlines a better chance to secure slots and compete with larger airlines.
- Generate revenue for airports, which can be used to invest in infrastructure and improve the overall passenger experience.
In summary, Modified Access Pricing is a pricing mechanism that aims to optimize the use of airport capacity, promote efficiency, and encourage a more equitable distribution of slots among airlines. It's an innovative approach to managing airport congestion and capacity, and it's being implemented at several airports around the world.