A framework to minimize environments risks and to identify repurposing operations in the commercial aviation sector

Abstract This article proposes a risk management framework based on the Project Management Institute (PMI) risk management knowledge area to minimize threats in risk environments and identify repurposing operations in commercial aviation. The research method comprises three main steps: (i) the identification of repurposing and risk management methodologies applicable to commercial aviation through a literature review; (ii) the adaptation of the risk management framework for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19); and (iii) a proposed framework for risk management. The developed framework identifies repurposing areas and highlights relative weaknesses that are overlooked in commercial aviation. Thus, it reduces the impact of risk environments such as pandemics, and it emphasizes the importance of considering previous historical events or lessons when generating strategies for new risk situations. Commercial aviation applies repurposing operations and promotes cooperation between supply chain actors in only a few areas. This article provides a methodology for subgroups of airlines and passengers, showing different effects between risk categories to benefit commercial aviation industry subgroups. Moreover, it contributes to risk management and decision-making in commercial aviation. The article’s proposed risk management framework identifies whether a risk environment is local, national, or global. It also allows us to reflect on the sectors involved in commercial aviation, and it recommends forming risk committees to jointly coordinate and monitor risks in order to generate global strategies and identify both areas for repurposing operations and the financial capacity needed to meet demand.