Determine the Non-Aviation Roles of Your Airport
Exploring the non-aviation roles of an airport is important to establish how the airport may interact with the community. This role is where the community will most likely interact with the airport, especially for a GA airport. This is due to the fact that if you do not have a reason to use or go to the airport, local residents likely have little reason to become familiar with their local airport. Examine the events, services, or even entertainment that may bring the community to the airport that are not directly related to aviation operations. In some instances, there are physical and social perceptions of the airport that may alienate the broader community, and participating in a non-aviation role can bridge the gap between the two. Learn more about the non-aviation roles of the airport in the Understand section and determine if your airport is involved with, hosts or contributes to the following roles.
On-Airport Economic Activities
Investigate if your airport, or businesses located at the airport, are generating revenue through non-aviation activities. An example is an industrial park located on airport property or leasing office space in the terminal. Review the airport tenants and users that you identified in Determine the Aviation Roles of Your Airport for information about related non-aviation activities. Do a brief survey of the airport area – what land uses do you see on and adjacent to the airport? Are there non-vertical uses such as agricultural land being used for crops or livestock?
Community Outreach
Explore what actions your airport takes to be involved with the community. Does your airport have a formal process for arranging airport tours? Does your airport host events with hands-on participation such as an open house? Giving the community a chance to experience the airport in person is an excellent opportunity to share the roles of your airport.
Does your airport have any outreach to the community or host community events? Airport hangars can be used for receptions, ceremonies and meetings. Terminal buildings can be useful for meetings. Some airports have sponsored 5K runs, using the airport perimeter roads as the race course. Local bands or orchestras have used hangars to perform community concerts. The options are endless. It should be noted, coordination with your FAA ADO is recommended.
Community Service
The airport is in a position to provide services to the community. If your airport has meeting space or conference rooms, investigate whether external community groups use the space for their meetings. Your airport might also offer awards and scholarships in an effort to demonstrate the airport’s support for the community. Being involved in local community activities and groups is also a good way to expose the community to the airport.