Some employees may mistakenly think that the end goal is to move airplanes. Moving empty seats is not production, but is idle capacity. Therefore, airlines cannot produce moved passengers until the passengers demand the movement. Production is, in a sense, delivery. It is difficult to cancel flights once they are on the schedule.
Good forecasting is essential.
Forecasting techniques selection may be a difficult decision. Track demand data not only for specific times of the year, but also at specific times of the day. Plan schedules accordingly. Assure that airline scheduling personnel are aware of demand that differs substantially from prior demand, such as by the entry or exit of a competitor in that market.