Modernizing the data infrastructure of an international airline to streamline operations and scale
CLIENT
A large low-cost airline connecting travelers globally to more than 100 destinations across North America, Central America, the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia.
STORY HIGHLIGHTS
Successfully migrating data from an outdated legacy SQL Server to a modern cloud solution
The airline moved from obsolete databases to a resilient cloud-based platform to support rapid growth, and new acquisitions.
Creating operational efficiencies, scalability, and cost reduction
Updating systems improved everything from crew scheduling to fuel tracking to fare pricing and fleet management, allowing the company to quickly scale without disrupting daily operations.
Reverse engineering existing business rules to optimize functionality
Rigorous testing for quality and reliability helped redefine and clarify business rules, improve data quality and operational accuracy, and empower internal teams to manage the new system independently.
CHALLENGE
Navigating through technical turbulence
The airline was experiencing rapid growth, partially through the acquisition of other airlines. However, its operations were constrained by an outdated SQL Server that failed to keep pace with its expansion.
The airline required assistance transitioning to a more modern, cloud-based architecture to better manage and make sense of its extensive flight operations data, which spanned areas such as crew scheduling and fuel tracking. The company partnered with Resultant to migrate from their SQL Server, and had identified opportunities to enhance various operational aspects, including fare pricing and fleet management.
SOLUTION
Transitioning to a cloud-based data warehouse
The first step was decommissioning the SQL Server and migrating data to Snowflake, an advanced cloud-based data warehouse. Snowflake incorporated WhereScape for process automation to integrate seamlessly and quickly create a scalable infrastructure supporting the airline’s continued growth. This move positioned the company to compete more effectively with major industry players.
Implementing comprehensive data quality testing
We instituted rigorous testing and business rule validation processes to verify the new system met operational reliability standards. The project used an iterative development methodology, emphasizing continuous collaboration with the airline’s stakeholders and incremental testing to identify and resolve issues quickly.
Collaborating with the airline’s data engineering teams
Resultant mentored the airline’s data engineering teams on best practices in Data Vault and cloud architecture to ensure long-term success. This agile, business-focused partnership addressed the company’s unique needs while remaining flexible to evolving data requirements.
Our work laid a foundational platform that addressed immediate operational challenges and supported the airline’s strategic goals, including potential future growth.
– Chas Stoker, Business Development Executive
RESULTS
Successful migration to Snowflake with improved data infrastructure
We helped the airline avoid a costly SQL Server upgrade by successfully migrating them to a scalable Snowflake cloud solution. This change modernized critical systems, enhanced operational efficiency, and ensured continuous business operations.
Quantifiable benefits in cost savings, operational efficiency, and performance
Resultant enhanced the airline’s capabilities across key areas, including fleet utilization optimization, crew and resource allocation, fare allocation and pricing efficiency, fuel cost management, flight scheduling and on-time performance, and reservation and check-in systems.
A scalable foundation for future growth
By migrating data to the cloud-based Snowflake and automating processes, the airline could better manage its fast growth and acquisition of other companies. We also helped the airline cut costs on licenses and old hardware, supporting its goal of higher efficiency and the ability to grow quickly.
Resultant’s solution showcases expertise in optimization across assets, staff, and resource management—key focus areas for transportation sector clients.
– Brian Vinson, Client Partner Private Sector Consulting Team, Resultant
Contact us to learn more about our capabilities for the aviation industry
