‘Spirit of Australia’? The idea of the national carrier is long dead
The concept of a national airline representing a country's identity and serving its citizens is outdated and no longer relevant in today's aviation industry. Airlines like Qantas and Lufthansa, despite their national branding, operate as commercial entities focused on profit rather than national service. The romanticized idea of a 'national carrier' from the golden age of air travel has been eroded by privatization and global market forces.
- ▪The idea of a national carrier emerged during the golden age of air travel when flying was a formal and luxurious experience.
- ▪Qantas markets itself as the 'Spirit of Australia,' but it no longer functions as a true national carrier serving public interest.
- ▪National airlines like Lufthansa often fail to reflect the efficiency or values associated with their home countries.
- ▪Modern aviation is driven by capitalism and privatization, undermining the original purpose of national carriers.
- ▪The term 'national carrier' persists in media and public discourse, even though the concept has largely lost its meaning.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at SMH Traveller.