Innovative ideas for improving airport community relations

Abstract

This paper focuses on airport strategies for successful community engagement, and goes on to examine what airports can do in this regard, describing youth programmes, encouraging aviation careers, adult outreach and becoming opinion leaders. Tactics may change over time but the basics of communication, transparency, building long-term relationships will always remain the same. The goal is to increase trust and visibility and decrease complaints and the us versus them mentality. The key is to earn enough mutual respect to work together to find common ground. There will always be those that complain, but if enough of the majority can work with the organisation, the benefits will outweigh the costs. In order to accomplish this, it is important for airports to raise their profiles and become participatory members in their communities and offer innovative ways to improve airport community relations. By showcasing the airport as a caring, responsible and trusted member of the community, the aviation industry gains a newfound familiarity among its neighbours. Typically, airports face backlash from their communities due to noise, air pollution and other factors that impact the daily lives of the people who live in close proximity to the airport. Through actions, education and ongoing involvement, airports can influence public opinions and create partnerships with local schools, businesses and community members for the benefit of all parties. Accomplishing this requires the airport to be proactive and collaborate with local leaders, organisations and communities. Once an airport establishes itself as a vested and trusted organisation, it has the chance to thrive and prosper as a respected and valued part of any community. Research also shows that communities thrive when businesses are involved. The paper ends by stressing the importance of good communication.