Airport Planning
Airport Planning is a specialized field that focuses on designing and organizing airports to work efficiently and safely. It's like city planning, but specifically for airports. Planners look at everything from where to put terminals and runways to how passengers will move through the airport. They also think about how the airport will grow in the future and how it fits with nearby communities. This work is essential for both new airports and updating existing ones. You might see it called "aviation planning" or "airport master planning" in job descriptions.
Examples in Resumes
Developed Airport Planning studies for three major international airports
Led Airport Master Planning projects to improve passenger flow and capacity
Created Aviation Planning recommendations for regional airport expansion
Conducted Airport Planning analysis to optimize gate usage and terminal layout
Typical job title: "Airport Planners"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Airport Planners
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you approach creating a 20-year master plan for a major international airport?
Expected Answer: A senior planner should discuss analyzing passenger forecasts, considering environmental impacts, phasing of development, stakeholder engagement, and balancing current operations with future expansion needs.
Q: How do you handle conflicting stakeholder interests in airport planning projects?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate experience in managing relationships between airlines, airport authorities, local communities, and government agencies, with examples of successful conflict resolution.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when planning terminal facilities?
Expected Answer: Should discuss passenger flow, security requirements, retail space, gate capacity, baggage handling, and how these elements work together for efficient operations.
Q: How do you assess an airport's capacity needs?
Expected Answer: Should explain analysis of passenger numbers, aircraft movements, peak hour operations, and using planning tools to determine facility requirements.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic components of an airport?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe airside (runways, taxiways) and landside (terminals, parking) facilities and their basic functions.
Q: What environmental factors need to be considered in airport planning?
Expected Answer: Should mention noise impacts, air quality, wildlife protection, and basic understanding of environmental regulations.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of airport components
- Ability to read airport plans and maps
- Knowledge of basic aviation terms
- Assist in data collection and analysis
Mid (2-5 years)
- Terminal and airfield planning
- Passenger flow analysis
- Environmental impact assessment
- Stakeholder coordination
Senior (5+ years)
- Master planning leadership
- Project management
- Strategic planning
- Client relationship management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic aviation terminology
- Lack of understanding of airport operations
- No experience with planning regulations
- Poor understanding of stakeholder management
- No familiarity with environmental requirements
