Airports Front & Center

Airports Front & Center

There are certain truths involving airports and the customers they serve. Public scares involving health and safety often seem to position airports front and center. It may not always be warranted, but it's something we need to deal with.

Remember the West African Ebola epidemic of 2013-2016? When things were getting out of control and fear was rampant about the virus spreading to North America, our airports were on the front lines. There was a great deal of media coverage detailing procedures set up at certain airports to control and prevent the spread of the disease.

The same can be said for terrorism, starting predominantly with 9/11. Airports were first in line for news coverage and remedies to help keep us safe.

The natural disasters this September once again thrust airports to the forefront. Before hurricanes Harvey and Irma arrived, reporters flocked to airports for footage of people in ticketing lines and countless cancelled flights on the FIDS. Newscasters also kept the public abreast of airport damage and when the facilities would reopen. 

In a somewhat curious way, it's comforting to know that our airports occupy such a critically central role-on a daily basis and especially during times of duress. Perhaps this year's hurricanes can serve as a reminder to elected officials that airports are crucial lifelines for the general public. Every day, airports facilitate the movement of goods and services to/from our communities. In order to be prepared, we need the resources necessary to handle this mammoth responsibility. Now's the time to make our case.

Cheers,