Top 10 Airport Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for airport managers in the job market because they demonstrate a high level of expertise and knowledge. They also indicate that the individual has taken the time to acquire specialized training and experience necessary for success in the field. Certifications provide employers assurance that an airport manager has the necessary skills to effectively oversee operations, manage personnel, and ensure safety and security at airports. In addition, certifications can often lead to higher pay, better benefits, and more career opportunities.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Airport Managers and explain how they can help advance an airport manager's career.

What are Airport Manager Certifications?

Airport Manager Certification is a professional certification program designed to provide airport managers with the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to effectively manage a modern-day airport. The program focuses on the key components of airport operations, including safety and security, financial management, customer service, operational planning and more. By obtaining this certification, airport managers are able to strengthen their job performance and better understand the industry in which they work.

The program provides an extensive overview of all aspects of running an airport, from safety regulations to personnel management. It also covers topics such as developing and implementing long-term strategic plans for airports, understanding the nuances of air transportation laws and regulations, analyzing airline contracts and creating effective marketing plans for airports. Additionally, the course covers how to lead teams in times of crisis or emergency situations.

By completing Airport Manager Certification training courses, those in charge of managing airports can gain valuable insight into the industry while broadening their knowledge base. This certification can help them become more confident in their abilities as they strive to ensure that their airports remain safe and efficient at all times.

Pro Tip: When pursuing an airport manager certification, make sure to research the requirements and qualifications for each program you are considering. Many certifications have specific coursework or experience requirements that must be met in order to obtain the certification. Additionally, take advantage of any online resources available to help you better understand the topics covered in the certification program.

Related: What does an Airport Manager do?

Top 10 Airport Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Airport Managers today.

1. Airport Management Certification (AMC)

Airport Management Certification (AMC) is a professional certification program offered by the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of airport professionals. The certification is based on an individual’s experience in airport management and operations.

The AMC program consists of two levels: Associate Airport Executive (AAE) and Certified Airport Executive (CAE). To earn the AAE designation, applicants must have at least five years of full-time experience in aviation management or operations. To earn the CAE designation, applicants must have at least ten years of full-time experience in aviation management or operations.

The process for obtaining either level of certification can take up to six months from application to approval. Applicants must submit an application form, provide evidence of their experience in aviation management or operations, and pass a written exam administered by AAAE. Additionally, applicants must complete a minimum number of hours of continuing education courses related to airport management or operations each year to maintain their certification status.

The cost for obtaining either level of certification varies depending on the applicant’s membership status with AAAE. For non-members, the cost for both levels is $500 plus any applicable taxes; for members, the cost for both levels is $400 plus any applicable taxes.

2. Certified Airport Executive (CAE)

Certified Airport Executive (CAE) is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional knowledge and experience in the management of airports. It is offered by the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE).

The CAE program consists of three components: a written examination, an oral examination, and an airport simulation exercise. The written exam covers topics such as airport operations, safety and security, finance, planning and development, marketing and customer service, public relations and community outreach, legal issues, and environmental compliance. The oral exam focuses on leadership skills such as communication, problem solving, decision making, conflict resolution, and team building. The airport simulation exercise tests the candidate's ability to manage an airport in real-time scenarios.

It typically takes 8-12 months to complete the CAE program. To get certified as a CAE you must first meet all eligibility requirements which include having at least five years of full-time experience in the management of airports or related aviation fields. You must also submit an application package including transcripts from any relevant courses taken in college or university programs; letters of recommendation; a statement of purpose; and a resume or CV outlining your work experience.

The cost for the CAE program varies depending on which components are chosen; however it usually ranges between $2,000-$3,000 USD.

3. Certified Airport Manager (CAM)

Certified Airport Manager (CAM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills and abilities required to manage an airport. The program is administered by the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE).

The CAM program consists of three parts: a written exam, an oral exam, and a practical experience requirement. The written exam covers topics such as airport operations, safety, security, finance and administration. The oral exam focuses on management principles and techniques. Both exams must be passed in order to receive the certification.

The practical experience requirement requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to manage an airport through two years of full-time management-level experience in any combination of airport operations, aviation business or public service related positions.

It typically takes between 6 months and 1 year to complete all requirements for the CAM certification.

To get certified as a CAM, you must first become a member of AAAE and then submit an application for the CAM program. Once accepted into the program, applicants must pass both the written and oral exams before they can be officially certified as a CAM.

The cost for becoming a CAM varies depending on whether you are already an AAAE member or not. If you are not already an AAAE member, it will cost $275 for membership plus $400 for the application fee for the CAM program ($675 total). If you are already an AAAE member, it will just cost $400 for the application fee for the CAM program ($400 total).

4. International Air Transport Association (IATA) Airport Management Diploma

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Airport Management Diploma is a comprehensive program designed to provide airport professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage airports. It is a globally recognized qualification that provides an in-depth understanding of the principles and practices of airport management.

The IATA Airport Management Diploma is divided into two parts: the Foundation Level and the Advanced Level. The Foundation Level is designed for those who are new to airport management, while the Advanced Level focuses on more specialized topics such as safety, security, customer service, finance and marketing.

The program typically takes between 12-18 months to complete depending on how much time you have available and your commitment level. To earn the diploma, you must successfully complete both levels of the program.

To get started, you must first register with IATA’s e-learning platform and pay a registration fee of US$125. You will then be able to access all course materials online and take part in interactive sessions with other students from around the world.

Once you have completed both levels of the program, you will need to sit an exam at an approved IATA examination center in order to receive your diploma. The cost of this exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from US$200-$400.

5. Airport Security Professional Certification (ASPC)

Airport Security Professional Certification (ASPC) is a certification program designed to provide airport security professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to protect passengers, crew, and aircraft from malicious threats. The certification is offered by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and is valid for three years.

To obtain this certification, applicants must have at least two years of experience in aviation security or related fields such as law enforcement or military service. In addition, they must pass an online assessment that covers topics such as aviation security regulations, risk management principles, and threat identification.

The cost of the ASPC certification varies depending on the country where it is taken. Generally speaking, it costs between $200 and $400 USD to take the exam. It typically takes about four weeks from start to finish to complete the application process and receive your certification.

6. Certified Aviation Manager (CAM)

Certified Aviation Manager (CAM) is a professional designation awarded by the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) to individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise in aviation management. The CAM program is designed to provide aviation professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage an aviation department, including safety, operations, maintenance, financials, personnel, and other related areas.

The CAM program consists of four courses: Fundamentals of Business Aviation Management; Aviation Safety Management Systems; Aircraft Maintenance Management; and Financial Management for Aviation Professionals. Each course is offered online or in-person at various locations throughout the US. The total cost for all four courses is $3,500 USD.

The estimated time to complete the CAM program is six months. However, this can vary depending on how quickly you are able to complete each course. To get started on your CAM journey, you must first register with NBAA and pay the applicable fees. After registering, you will be given access to the materials needed for each course as well as instructions on how to proceed through them.

Once you have completed all four courses and passed their respective exams with a score of 80% or higher, you will be eligible to receive your Certified Aviation Manager designation from NBAA.

7. International Air Transport Association (IATA) Safety and Quality Auditor

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Safety and Quality Audit (ISQA) is a comprehensive audit program that evaluates the safety and quality of an airline’s operations. This audit is conducted by IATA-certified auditors who assess the airline’s compliance with IATA safety and quality standards. The ISQA covers all aspects of an airline’s operations, including aircraft maintenance, flight operations, cabin safety, ground handling, cargo handling, and customer service.

The ISQA process typically takes up to three weeks to complete. During this time, the auditor will review documents and records related to the airline’s operations as well as observe operational activities at the airport. After completing the audit, a report is issued which outlines any non-conformances or areas of improvement that need to be addressed by the airline.

To get an ISQA certification, airlines must first submit an application form to IATA for approval. Once approved, they must then undergo a series of training courses before taking part in the actual audit. These courses cover topics such as safety management systems and aviation regulations. Airlines must also pay a fee for each stage of their certification process.

The cost of obtaining an ISQA certification varies depending on the size of the airline and its complexity but typically ranges from $20,000 to $50,000 USD per year for larger airlines.

8. International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Airport Operations Specialist

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Airport Operations Specialist is a professional certification program that provides airport operations personnel with the knowledge and skills to ensure safe and efficient airport operations. The program covers topics such as airside safety, aircraft ground handling, airport security, customer service, and more. It is designed for individuals who are responsible for the day-to-day operations of an airport.

It typically takes around two years to complete the ICAO Airport Operations Specialist certification program. During this time, you will need to complete a variety of courses including aviation law, airport engineering and design, air traffic control, customer service, and more. In addition to completing coursework, you will also need to pass an examination in order to receive your certification.

You can obtain your ICAO Airport Operations Specialist certification by enrolling in an accredited training program or taking online courses from an accredited provider. Once you have completed all of the necessary coursework and passed the exam, you will receive your certificate from ICAO.

The cost of obtaining your ICAO Airport Operations Specialist certification varies depending on the type of training program or online course that you choose to take. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $1,000 - $5,000 USD depending on the length and complexity of the program.

9. International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Airport Planning and Design Specialist

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Airport Planning and Design Specialist (APDS) is a professional certification program designed to provide airport professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to plan, design, construct, operate and maintain airports. The APDS program is administered by ICAO in cooperation with the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

The APDS program consists of two parts: a theoretical part and a practical part. The theoretical part includes topics such as airport planning and design principles, airport operations, safety management systems, environmental regulations and standards, construction techniques, airfield pavement design and maintenance, aircraft parking stands design and other related topics. The practical part includes field visits to airports for hands-on experience in planning and designing airports.

It typically takes around six months to complete the APDS program. To become an APDS certified specialist you must first pass an online examination which tests your knowledge on all aspects of airport planning and design. After passing the online exam you will then be invited to participate in a three-day training course held at an ICAO approved training center or university. During this course you will learn about all aspects of airport planning and design as well as how to apply them in practice. After completing the course you will be required to take a final examination which tests your understanding of all topics covered during the course. If successful you will be awarded your APDS certification.

The cost of the APDS program varies depending on where it is taken but typically ranges from $2,000 - $4,000 USD including registration fees for both the online exam and training course.

10. American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) Certified Member Program

The American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) Certified Member Program is a professional development program that provides airport executives with the opportunity to gain recognition for their expertise in the field. The program is designed to provide an objective measure of achievement and recognize those who have demonstrated their commitment to excellence in airport management.

To become a AAAE Certified Member, applicants must meet certain requirements, including having at least five years of experience in the aviation industry and completing a series of courses or workshops related to airport management. Applicants must also pass an examination that tests their knowledge of the principles and practices of airport management.

The certification process typically takes six months from start to finish. During this time, applicants must complete all required coursework and exams as well as submit an application form and fee. The application fee for AAAE Certification is $495 for members and $595 for non-members.

Once an applicant has successfully completed all requirements, they will be awarded the AAAE Certified Member designation. This designation is valid for three years, after which time recertification is required.

Do You Really Need a Airport Manager Certificate?

When deciding whether or not you need an Airport Manager Certificate, the answer depends on your career goals and ambitions. If you are looking to secure a position as an airport manager within the aviation industry, then a certificate can be a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and experience. It can also provide some competitive advantage when applying for jobs.

On the other hand, if you do not have any immediate plans to pursue a career in airport management, then it may not be necessary for you to obtain a certificate. The aviation industry is highly competitive and employers are looking for people with specific qualifications and experience that can help their business succeed. A certificate may simply be one of many requirements that employers look for when hiring new personnel.

Ultimately, it is important to remember that obtaining an Airport Manager Certificate is only one part of the equation when it comes to being successful in this field. You will need other qualifications such as excellent communication skills, problem-solving capabilities and leadership qualities in order to stand out from the competition. Additionally, having hands-on experience in managing airports or working in related fields can also give you the edge over others who may hold the same certification but lack practical knowledge and expertise.

Related: Airport Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Airport Manager Certifications

1. What is an Airport Manager Certification?

Answer: An Airport Manager Certification is a certification that demonstrates the knowledge and skills required to manage airports in accordance with national and international aviation regulations. It also demonstrates the expertise necessary to ensure the safe, efficient and effective operation of airport facilities.

2. How do I become certified as an Airport Manager?

Answer: To become certified as an Airport Manager, you must complete a specialized training program and pass an exam administered by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The program typically includes courses in airport operations, safety management systems, aircraft security, air traffic control and other related topics.

3. What are the benefits of being certified as an Airport Manager?

Answer: Being certified as an Airport Manager offers several benefits, including increased job opportunities, higher pay levels and improved professional recognition within the aviation industry. It also helps to ensure that airports are managed safely and efficiently in accordance with national and international regulations.

4. How long does it take to complete a certification program for Airport Managers?

Answer: The length of time needed to complete a certification program for Airport Managers varies depending on the type of coursework involved, but most programs can be completed in one year or less.

5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming an Airport Manager?

Answer: Yes, most programs require applicants to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent before they can enroll in the certification program. Additionally, some programs may require applicants to have prior experience working in the aviation industry or related fields.