Conclusions

The Conclusions chapter underscores the importance of examining the unintended effects and consequences of aviation policies. This book reveals that well-intentioned interventions often stray from their original objectives due to strategic stakeholder behavior and shifting market dynamics. Policies designed to enhance competition, protect passengers, or improve environmental outcomes may, paradoxically, yield counterproductive results. Furthermore, even widely accepted research methods intended to reduce estimation bias can inadvertently introduce new forms of bias. The book highlights the complexity and dynamism of policy outcomes, emphasizing the need for continuous evaluation and critical reflection on research methodologies. It calls for academic research to serve not only as a means of identifying evidence but also as a tool for articulating problems—shedding light on hidden issues and expanding the boundaries of inquiry. Acknowledging the limitations of observational data and the challenges of generalizability, the chapter advocates for future research that integrates diverse approaches, including natural experiments, machine learning, and qualitative analysis—especially in confronting emerging challenges such as climate change and global pandemics. Ultimately, it urges a balanced, iterative, and multi-perspective approach to research and policymaking, grounded in humility about the inherent imperfections of both evidence and policy.