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:
- Entry into airport management often requires an aviation management degree, military/airline operational experience, or a professional pilot background, with internships being critical for career entry.
- A pilot's license is considered essential for the role, and professional certifications like the AAAE's Certified Member (CM) or Accredited Airport Executive (AAE) are available to support career advancement.
- Career paths can involve starting at small airports for broad experience or large airports for specialized roles, with earning potential ranging from approximately $96,000 to over $200,000 annually for major facility managers.
- The role frequently involves political challenges and high turnover due to interactions with appointed officials who may lack aviation expertise.
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