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This was the message I saw on an airport website recently. Could you imagine if that were posted on the benefits page of your insurance company’s website, or under the “About” tab on AAAE’s site? This wouldn’t be acceptable, would it?

Or what if you need to talk to someone about a job, noise complaint or hangar space, and the airport’s website has no contact information listed? Sure doesn’t seem like a good business practice. 

Lastly, you’re looking at the news and events section of an airport website, and the last posting was from January 2014. Hmmm, is it possible that nothing has happened there in more than four years? For their sake, I hope not!

Unfortunately, there are many airport websites that simply don’t get the job done. And a few are downright embarrassing to the airport they’re supposed to serve. A “New Website under Construction” message that’s been posted for longer than it takes to complete an EIS is not acceptable. An up-to-date, functional website is perhaps the most important tool you can offer your community and passengers. It’s also not a bad way to let politicians know the good things you’re doing to serve the community, which is important when funding discussions are often just around the corner. 

It’s not our nature to criticize airports, but we also don’t turn a blind eye when something is blatantly wrong. We prefer to share examples about airports that are doing things right. Not surprisingly, there are some really good airport websites out there. We highlight three of them in this issue. Good website design, information and maintenance are not limited to airports with big budgets and large staffs. Rather, it’s about knowing your market and goals, good planning and consistent upkeep. 

Please take a look at your own airport’s website—and not just the homepage. Try clicking on each tab and see what you find. Can passengers and airport tenants find the information they need?

Is there a listing of airport staff that helps them connect with the right people? 

When it comes to construction, an airport’s to-do list is never finished. The same should be true for its website. 

Cheers,