ATRIF Air Transportation Research International Forum A group of strategic planners and operations research analysts from all segments of the aviation industry organized the Air Transportation Research International Forum in 1973. Formation of ATRIF provided the needed forum for analysts, planners, operational researchers, and airline representatives. The mission of ATRIF is to provide such a forum where individuals can meet to discuss common problems, promote research into improving methods of planning, analysis or forecasting. Membership requirements are liberal, dependent only on a sincere interest. Any individual interested in air transportation systems research, either independently or through association with any industrial or carrier firm, academic, civic or trade association, or governmental agency is eligible for membership. Approximately 65 members on average attend the bi-annual meetings, with the Spring meeting routinely exceeding 80. Representatives come from airframe manufacturers, engine suppliers, avionics suppliers, airlines, universities and the government. A prime membership goal is to expand the current active membership base throughout the industry and around the world. Content of each meeting is unique and represents current interest and concern in the industry. Typical subjects recently presented for the membership include international trade and technology policies, trend in the aircraft suppliers industry, the aerospace recovery, balancing the supply/demand equation, providing value to meet customer wants, information technology in the aircraft market, new generation aircraft and engines, and airline globalization. One of the most useful meetings, which is held biennially, is the presentation of an Air Traffic/Capacity Survey where the major airframe manufacturers', engine manufacturers' and other large suppliers' forecasts of revenue passengers growth, load factors, seats added and seats retired are compared. At this same meeting, in a blind study, the attendees are polled on the industry outlook. The results of this survey are useful for each professional in ascertaining where his company's environmental assumptions fit in comparison with those of his industry peers. The major benefit of ATRIF has been to improve the professional skills of its members. The opportunity to meet in order to compare techniques and test ideas increases understanding and creativity. New approaches to the individual's own work techniques benefits his management, whether it be within a corporation, the government or an academic institution. The planner's job is to provide dependable assumptions for management. Since forecasting always occurs in an uncertain environment, information gathered in an effective manner reduces uncertainty and allows the company to be ready for change. ATRIF provides an opportunity for everyone interested in the future of the aviation industry, to improve their knowledge and understanding of the issues which will determine that future.