Worldwide demand for air travel is rising. More people are traveling on global airlines than in years past, with no sign of slowing down. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), international air travel passenger demand was up 8.1% year-over-year in November 2024 — a sign of rapid, continued growth since the dip in demand during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, IATA projects the total annual number of air travel passengers will reach roughly 5.2 billion in 2025 — the first time this figure will exceed 5 billion.
There are numerous contributors to industry growth such as emerging markets, new model airlines and low-cost carriers. With increasing global air travel numbers and the complexity of aviation supply chain operations, career opportunities in aviation will grow accordingly. One exciting and essential job in the aviation industry is airport operations manager. Educational opportunities like the online Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Aviation Management program from Florida Institute of Technology prepare students to excel in this critical profession.
What Is an Airport Operations Manager?
Airport operations managers are crucial to an airport’s airside operations and maintenance objectives in ensuring safe and effective air travel for passengers and freight. An airport operations manager is responsible for organizing and directing all airport operations and overseeing maintenance programs for airport facilities. These professionals also oversee safety and security functions and ensure airports meet all relevant federal and state operational and regulatory aviation regulations.
The opportunities are diverse and the responsibilities may vary as an airport operations manager. Duties and responsibilities include everything from day-to-day operations to managing the overall progress of multi-billion-dollar terminal upgrades. Professionals in this position ensure that the airport operates efficiently through planning, organizing, problem-solving, effective supervision, communication and leadership.
Where Do Qualified Professionals Find Airport Operations and Management Jobs?
Various types of public and private airports employ airport operations managers across the country and world. From international commercial airports to regional private airfields, professionals who are responsible for operations ensure airport logistics, safety and compliance processes run smoothly.
As of 2023, there are more than 20,000 public and private airports in the country, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. Data from Statista shows that private airports substantially outnumber public airports. Private airports also increased in numbers since 2014, compared to the slow or stagnant growth of public airports.
Potential Salary in Airport Operations Management
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not provide salary data specifically for airport operations managers. However, general and operations managers (the category that airport operations managers fall under) earn a median annual salary of $101,280, as of 2023. BLS reports that the highest earning 10% of operations managers make over $232,000 annually.
Salary potential and employment opportunities may vary depending on factors such as a candidate’s education and experience, as well as regional market conditions and the size or type of airport. Prospective students should conduct independent research to determine likely income levels in their region.
Education Preparation and Other Qualifications for Airport Ops Careers
Educational and experience requirements vary depending on the size and scope of airport operations responsibilities. Yet, a typical education requirement for this position is a bachelor’s degree in aviation management or a related field such as business management.
It is common for airports to seek individuals with a variety of professional experiences in aviation management and operations in addition to a degree applicable to job duties. A BA in aviation management can begin a career path in airport operations by providing a broad knowledge base of airport management, along with the development of practical business acumen and leadership skills.
Who Makes a Good Fit for an Airport Operations Manager?
Airport operations managers work in complex, evolving environments across multi-agency and multifunctional teams. These professionals ensure airport and airline personnel — including others in management roles — follow all aviation policies and procedures.
Those with strong organizational and leadership skills may be good candidates for a career as an airport operations manager. These skills include the ability to communicate effectively, problem-solve under pressure and work with internal and external stakeholders. A comprehensive education in aviation management also helps aspiring airport operations and management personnel gain the knowledge and expertise needed to excel on the job.
Learn more about Florida Tech’s online BA in Aviation Management.
