Recognition of Value of International Aviation Hub Air Shuttle on Hub Route Network

Abstract

To improve the strategic architecture of the air shuttle network, it is crucial to conduct a scientific evaluation of the value of the air shuttle line connecting international aviation hubs. In light of the blocking of 31 international inter-hub shuttle routes, this study computes the changes in the indicators of the inter-hub route network based on inter-hub route statistics. Changes in transit characteristics and node accessibility were further investigated based on changes in betweenness and closeness. The findings demonstrate the following: (1) the influence of international inter-hub shuttle lines on the inter-hub route network is categorized into three levels, with the routes connecting Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou constituting the highest tier; (2) the obstruction of the shuttle line between international hubs has the greatest effect on the accessibility of Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou as well as the transit performance of Lhasa, Fuzhou, and Changchun; and (3) Wuhan, Zhengzhou, and Changsha demonstrate noteworthy resilience in terms of accessibility and transit capacity. These findings provide insights for enhancing the main routes of air shuttle networks and boosting the competitiveness of important hubs. They also provide stakeholders in the aviation sector, including airlines, airports, and legislators, a basis on which to make decisions.