According to the article "The regional airline sector is likely to emerge smaller but stronger," opined Munetsi, "The next five years are critical for the SADC aviation sector in that policies have to be aligned with the reality of the airlines that serve the markets. Many studies have demonstrated the inarguable catalytic effect of aviation to the gross domestic product of any country. As the region's economies strive to regain the momentum of the pre- pandemic era, the authorities must realise that the airlines are an integral part of the solution. Southern African airlines will find themselves at the forefront of ensuring the recovery of economies through their role of providing uplift for passengers and goods. This will enhance the intra-region and, by extension, continental trade which will result in the growth of economies." As an operations analyst in the office of the CEO of Airlink, you have been tasked to undertake a comprehensive analysis of Airlink's operations strategy. The primary objective of the analysis is to establish how well current operational capabilities match the post-COVID-19 requirements of customers. Secondly, the analysis is expected to address the need for improved understanding and practice of operations strategy in order to position Airlink as an airline that provides superior value to customers at an affordable price in a manner that responds to the needs of customers. Please note: Your discussion should emphasise the following: (1) a meaningful definition of, and elaboration on, the concepts of 'operations strategy' and 'operations strategy analysis' as well as, (2) a detailed step-bystep evaluation of operational capabilities. It is important that your discussion is made relevant to Airlink rather than a generic discussion that has no bearing on the Southern African airline industry