Corporate social responsibility and firm performance in the airline industry: The moderating role of oil prices

This study, first, proposes corporate social responsibility (CSR) dimensions as associated with operation-relatedness (i.e., operation-related [OR] and non-operation-related [Non-OR] CSR activities), following the Carroll CSR framework. In addition, the study examines and compares the effects of OR and Non-OR CSR dimensions on U.S. airlines' performances, and the final examination concerns the moderating effect of oil prices on the relationship between the OR (Non-OR) CSR dimension and firm performance. Findings of this study support a positive main effect from OR on firm performance. In addition, findings support the positive (negative) moderating effect of oil prices on the relationship between OR (Non-OR) CSR dimension.

► The study found operation-related CSR positively affected firm performance.
► Findings support the positive moderating effect of oil prices on CSR in airport OR operations.
► Findings support the negative moderating effect of oil prices on Non-OR CSR dimensions.