What are the most innovative sources of airport revenue and how can you pursue them?

1 Non-aeronautical revenue

Non-aeronautical revenue refers to any income that airports earn from activities or services that are not directly related to aviation operations. This can include retail, food and beverage, parking, advertising, car rental, hotel, entertainment, and more. Non-aeronautical revenue can account for up to 60% of an airport's total revenue, and it can also enhance the passenger experience and loyalty. To maximize non-aeronautical revenue, airport managers need to understand their customer segments, preferences, and behaviors, and offer them relevant and attractive options that match their needs and expectations.

2 Commercial partnerships

Commercial partnerships are agreements between airports and external organizations that can generate mutual benefits and revenue. For example, airports can partner with local businesses, tourism agencies, cultural institutions, or educational providers to offer passengers unique and memorable experiences, such as tours, events, courses, or exhibitions. Airports can also partner with airlines, travel agencies, or online platforms to offer integrated services, such as flight and hotel packages, loyalty programs, or digital solutions. Commercial partnerships can help airports diversify their revenue sources, increase their exposure and reputation, and create value for their customers and stakeholders.

3 Environmental initiatives

Environmental initiatives are actions that airports take to reduce their environmental impact and improve their sustainability. This can include investing in renewable energy, waste management, carbon offsetting, noise reduction, or biodiversity conservation. Environmental initiatives can also generate revenue for airports, either by saving costs, attracting grants or subsidies, or creating new markets. For example, airports can sell excess electricity from solar panels, generate income from recycling or composting, or offer carbon credits or certificates to passengers or airlines. Environmental initiatives can also enhance the airport's image and social responsibility, and appeal to environmentally conscious customers and partners.

4 Data monetization

Data monetization is the process of collecting, analyzing, and selling data that airports generate from their operations, customers, or assets. This can include data on passenger flow, flight patterns, customer feedback, weather conditions, or asset performance. Data monetization can create revenue for airports by providing valuable insights, solutions, or recommendations to internal or external parties, such as airlines, retailers, regulators, or researchers. Data monetization can also improve the airport's efficiency, safety, and customer satisfaction, and enable innovation and differentiation.

5 Ancillary services

Ancillary services are additional or optional services that airports offer to passengers or airlines that go beyond the basic transportation function. This can include baggage handling, seat selection, priority boarding, lounge access, Wi-Fi, or in-flight entertainment. Ancillary services can generate revenue for airports by increasing the average spending per passenger or airline, and by creating loyalty and satisfaction. To optimize ancillary services, airport managers need to identify the most profitable and popular services, and offer them at the right time, price, and channel.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?