Speaking at the seventh edition of TravTalk ThinkTank, Pran Sathiadasan, VP – Commercial Operations, Indian Subcontinent, flydubai believes aircraft financing costs remain an important factor influencing airline economics. He pointed to the impact of currency fluctuations on the sale-and-leaseback model widely used by airlines. According to him, increases in the dollar exchange rate can significantly increase leasing expenses for carriers, creating additional financial pressure. He noted that airlines ultimately need to recover these costs through their business models. Sathiadasan argued that while fuel prices often dominate discussions around airfares, financing and leasing costs are equally important factors influencing airline profitability and pricing decisions.
Janice Alyosius is a travel and MICE journalist focusing on business travel, destination marketing, aviation and industry policy. She leads editorial content at MICEtalk and also writes for TravTalk, covering global trends, trade developments and key industry conversations. With regular reporting from tourism forums, conventions and on-ground industry events, her work blends news-led analysis with strong industry voices, offering clear context and relevance for travel trade professionals and decision-makers.