Airport managers oversee all facility activities, from air operations to human resources and administration, in addition to ensuring compliance with TSA and FAA regulations. Jeff Price, a professor in the department of aviation and aerospace science at Colorado’s Metropolitan State University, explained the career path to running an airport. Price also heads Leading Edge Strategies, which creates training certification courses for airport managers approved by the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), the field’s accrediting organization.
Airport Managers Run the Show
Key Takeaways:
- A career in airport management typically requires a bachelor's in aviation management, military/airline operational experience, or a pilot background, with internships and a pilot's license strongly recommended.
- Advancement can begin at smaller airports for broad experience or larger ones for specialized roles, with professional certifications like those from the AAAE being crucial for progression.
- Salaries vary significantly, ranging from around $96,570 in local government to over $200,000 annually at major facilities, with consulting roles potentially offering higher compensation.
- The position often comes with political challenges and a high turnover rate, meaning managers frequently do not leave on their own terms.
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