Airport managers are the decision-makers and policy-makers for airports. They create jobs and oversee the management of each airport department. The job is multi-faceted and vital to aviation safety. Large airports that serve commercial airlines need managers to oversee several departments, but smaller airports may need airport managers to be more hands-on with areas such as finance, security, maintenance, and more.
Airport managers often are employed by the city where the airport is located, and they are responsible for all airport operations. The airport manager oversees all other employees and departments and manages the day-to-day operations as well as future airport planning. They may deal with many different issues, but they are primarily responsible for airport safety, regulations, and budget planning
Airport managers may have to deal with noise complaints, emissions testing, and airport equipment management. They work closely with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and other industry groups to manage and develop air traffic procedures, install navigation equipment, mitigate safety hazards, and manage the airport budget. They must work closely with numerous people, including the CAA, Onderzoeksraad voor Veiligheid (OVV), airline management, air traffic controllers, firefighters, security personnel linemen, and maintenance personnel.