Challenge

A midwest-based university made a deal to move into a larger athletic conference — which meant its teams would travel greater distances to unfamiliar cities and airports. The athletic department had limited time to analyze the alternatives and identify the most reliable yet cost-effective way to set up a comprehensive travel schedule.

Solution

PJS consulted with the university and provided four viable options for each sport's specific needs:

• A 30-seat regional aircraft for all flights.
• A 50-seat regional aircraft for all flights.
• A 65-seat business-class configured aircraft for all flights.
• A blend of 30-, 50- and 65-seat aircraft on a per-trip and per-team basis.

Result

The university chose the blend, because it let every team adjust to each travel event: the 30-seat aircraft for shorter distances, smaller teams like volleyball, or shorter runways; the 50-seat aircraft for the majority of basketball travel; and the 65-seat aircraft when donors and boosters traveled with the team. Beyond the cost savings, teams saved time through less ground travel, fewer hotel overnights and direct flights — and the university gained an academic advantage, as students used charter time as study hall and missed fewer classes.