Facility management services in general require considerable experience and expertise. Airport facility management is an even bigger challenge due to the specialized range of tasks and operations. Here are some of the things you need to know.
What does the job entail?
A limited number of different companies are involved in airport facility management at both commercial and general aviation airports. Most of these companies have a specific and pre-defined range of tasks, which can be anything from management of field equipment to air traffic services, asset management, and the provision of contract labor. These companies also handle the movement of passengers, baggage and cargo and may also handle catering, sanitation, landscaping and other facility operations that are typically required on core airport infrastructure and in airport facilities such as terminals. While some of the airport facility management companies work directly for airport sponsors, others are hired by other asset owners such as airport tenants, commercial carriers, and so on.
The need for specialization
A lot of the tasks referenced above require specific expertise in the aviation sector. In fact, companies that are involved in general facility management in other industries often do not possess the experience, licenses and permits necessary to work in the aviation sector. One of the major tasks in this regard is the training of airport based staff and employees in airport specific safety and security measures. Not every company that provides airport facility management services has proficiency wide range of capabilities, but some of them are capable of providing multiple services.
Seeking assistance
Depending on the nature of the contract, companies involved in airport facility management may have different capabilities and responsibilities. From managing the airport terminals to handling the baggage and passenger movements, some companies may perform all of the services. If you are an airport facility owner, you can contact one of these companies for your requirements, and they will provide a services proposal which should be ideally based on efficiency and cost reduction, innovation and transparent reporting, and maximizing brand and asset value. The company should also bring a wide range of experience and capabilities to the table, and they should provide you with references from previous operations.
Finding a company
Selecting a service provider for airport facility management can be tricky. If the company is being hired by the airport authorities, they need to have certain permits and licenses, besides prior experience of working on airports of similar size and scope. On the contrary, private asset owners are more concerned about ROI, and therefore, they should seek a company with the experience and expertise to maximize that aviation asset's value. If the company can manage additional on-airport services such as Fixed Base Operations (FBO), Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MOR) and Aircraft Charter and Management (ACM) it is always an added advantage.
There's no denying that professional airport facility management is important for all concerned stakeholders, and it is essential to provide quality service to the flying public. These companies not only provide management but also deliver the customer experience, which is why their role in the industry is critical and highly respected.
Nguyen An Tra My
Martin Wynn
