Telling the Story in Different Ways

While some communication can be done in print and social media, the relationship building and the storytelling noted previously can also be used to increase the community’s support of the airport by building advocates. An advocate is a person who understands the airport’s role and can speak in support of the airport. An airport’s staff is often small and overtaxed with a variety of responsibilities so finding advocates can expand resources.

An Airport Advisory Board or an Economic Partnership Group made up of supporters can be created for the specific purpose of advocating for and speaking on behalf of the airport in the community. The local Chamber of Commerce or economic development organizations may be a good a source of support. Elected officials, public staff people, tenants and other users of the airport can also be advocates for the airport. Presentations can provide the opportunity to find additional supporters through a direct “ask” – requesting that people share the information about the airport with others and that people help identify other audiences.

One of the most important advocates for the airport may be elected local, state, and federal officials who are in the position to make decisions that affect the airport. Building relationships with political officials and keeping them informed and apprised of airport positions is important. Without specific outreach from the airport, an elected official may or may not have any knowledge of or interest in airport issues. Airport representatives are in a position to provide facts that will help guide informed decision making through written correspondence or with personal meetings.