I know this is a lot different than the usual concepts/ideas thrown around here, but I thought it'd still get a lot of interest.
I'd like to start an airline. Not a low-cost one either, but a full international airline, focusing on ultra-long range travel (trans Pacific to start [Melbourne, Sydney, Auckland -> LA, SFO, Vancouverish]). I'd like to work on improving the airport process (as all airlines say they do, but I'd like to digitise almost everything from tickets, to boarding passes and baggage tags).
I feel that long distance travel requires an entirely different approach than just buying a bigger jet and providing the same services as ~2 hour flights. There are a few airlines doing well but I still feel there's room for improvement. A few hurdles though:
1. I don't know what to do now. There isn't too much information available (especially here). I'm leaning towards talking to a lawyer (maybe? don't have any money though) and have been reading the Airbus/Boeing "Jump start" [1][2] areas. Informative and helpful, but mostly if you already have the money.
2. I live in Australia (Perth) and there isn't the greatest amount of money here I'd imagine. At least compared to American sources. I'm aiming to find the money to afford the consulting fees of Airbus/Boeing and going from there to see the viability. I'd likely move to Sydney or Melbourne and try to take it further once I have a more concrete plan.
3. Right now most of what I have is a load of notes, a huge willingness to get it done (reached a point in life where I'm just saying fuck it and going with something), and a vision of how travel should be for those who can't regularly afford business/first class.
4. I understand the industry (well, from what I can glean). It's a tough, cutthroat business with very little profit in general. I'm ok with this. I'd still like to raise the bar with air travel from where it is now.
Most of you are probably extremely skeptical or doubtful and I understand, but I'd love any advice, help or even just a short mail.
[1]: http://www.airbus.com/en/services/start-me-up/airline-v-plan/
[2]: http://www.boeing.com/commercial/startup/index.html