Can the Netflix Business Model Actually Work for Commercial Aviation in Central Europe? It is Complicated!

Abstract

The case discusses SurfAir’s European market entry. For a flat fee, subscribers can fly on SurfAir’s network as much as they wish. It describes their entry into the market and the network development, as well as subsequent changes to the business model. While SurfAir initially operated one jet on their Zurich-London route, this route was soon discontinued. Instead, SurfAir collaborated with another airline operator offering single seats. A little more than a year after launching their European venture, SurfAir closed their European operations. This case allows to develop an understanding of the reasons why this venture was marked by failure.