Alan Borg – ‘When people feel comfortable enough to take to the skies again, we’ll be ready’

2020 has dealt a heavy blow to the aviation industry, and recovery will be an arduous journey. “As a company, we’ve always sought to invest in strategic, non-aviation projects that complement our core business, and the pandemic has once again shown the value of diversification,” declares Alan.

“When times are good, it’s easy to overlook long-term sustainability and prioritise quick gains. But crises remind us why it’s crucial to run a business as though it were a marathon, rather than a sprint. This has long been our strategy at MIA and the results have proven to be our life ring in this pandemic’s uncharted waters.”

Above all, though, cultivating a strong, dedicated team has been indispensable. “We are fortunate to be a group that recognises the importance of flexibility and looking at the bigger picture,” continues Alan. “We had to implement cost-cutting measures, including wage reductions, but the team’s understanding and support made this bitter pill a little easier to swallow.

“We have also been able to explore a working-from-home set-up, which we’d been discussing before the pandemic. I still believe in the value of the office, mostly because of those spontaneous moments of human connection. I think our future will retain remote-work arrangements, as well as an office layout that facilitates valuable interactions and preserves the space as a breeding ground for ideas.”

Reflecting on the future, Alan contends that airports are in for a tough six months before the industry bounces back. “Eventually, people will again seek new experiences abroad,” he concludes. “In the meantime, we’ll continue working with Government, airlines and all stakeholders to rebuild our network sustainably. When people feel comfortable enough to take to the skies again, we’ll be ready.”