Airport Planner

Single and multi engine aircraft parked at the general aviation ramp.

About the Career

An Airport Planner's responsibilities include participating in public meetings, public hearings, agency meetings, and coordinating with airport users. The applicant will be responsible for the management, preparation, and of airport planning documents on general aviation and air carrier airports. Planning documents may include but are not limited to: master plans, airport layout plans, creation of alternatives and design standards for environmental assessments, site selection studies, aeronautical surveys, instrument approach feasibility studies, safety and security analysis, benefit cost analysis studies, writing and updating airport certification manuals, emergency plans, and security manuals. Keep current with FAA planning and design aspects.

On the Job You Will

Design, promote, or administer Airport Layout Plans affecting land use, zoning, public utilities, community facilities, housing, or transportation.
Advise airport officials on project feasibility, cost-effectiveness, regulatory conformance, or possible alternatives.
Create and prepare graphic or narrative reports on land use data, including land area maps overlaid with geographic variables.
Hold public meetings with government officials, developers, the public, or special interest groups to formulate, develop, or address issues regarding airport expansion.
Identify opportunities for sustainability projects to improve energy efficiency, minimize pollution or waste at airports.

Details

Average Salary: $71,910
Salary Range: $51,800 - $104,610
Education: 4 Year Degree
Outlook: Great (11% - 20% growth)
Total Jobs (2024): 2,180

Education and Training

Education

A Bachelors or Masters Degree in Aviation Management, Planning, Civil Engineering, or a related field is required.

Related Experience

Must have 5-10 years of related planning experience specific to the position (e.g., transportation, airport or environmental). An AICP or PE certification is highly desired.

Job Training

Familiarity with FAA advisory circulars that pertain to the planning and design incorporated into the planning studies. Familiarity with federal laws pertaining to airport planning and design is required; local, and state is preferred. Knowledge of the environmental process is a plus.

Programs

Employers

NCTCOG does not endorse or promote programs listed on this website. Content is derived from college/university webpages and is intended to be a collection of available opportunities in the North Texas area. Always conduct due diligence when considering an educational program. Please contact the institution directly for more information.

An Airport Planner, shares his extensive experience in airport planning—from determining future runway locations to planning hangar capacity—and discusses essential skills for success as a consulting airport planner.