Air Service Development Specialist

Airport Commercial Service Development Specialist

Leads the airport's efforts to attract, retain, and expand commercial passenger and air cargo service. This role is responsible for developing data-driven route business cases, engaging airline network planners, analyzing passenger demand and revenue performance, and executing strategic initiatives that support long-term air service growth. The Specialist serves as the primary point of contact for airline partners and aviation industry stakeholders and represents the airport at airline meetings, conferences, and industry events. This position requires strong analytical capabilities, a deep understanding of airline economics, network planning, and the ability to communicate complex data in clear, persuasive presentations. Frequent travel may be required.

Responsibilities include:

• Identify, evaluate, and prioritize new route opportunities and service enhancements. Develop comprehensive airline business cases including passenger demand forecasting, revenue and yield projections, leakage and catchment analysis, competitive market assessments, fare and schedule analysis, analyze route performance and provide recommendations for retention and growth strategies. Support development and administration of airline incentive programs and air service agreements. Monitor airline fleet trends, network strategies, industry developments, and competitive dynamics.
• Conduct ongoing analysis of aviation, demographic, tourism, and economic data. Evaluate passenger behavior, booking trends, and revenue performance. Develop forecasting models and scenario analyses to support strategic decision-making. Maintain and enhance reporting statical data. Prepare regular performance reports for airport leadership and governing boards.
• Serve as the primary liaison with airline network planners and route development teams. Prepare and deliver executive-level presentations to airline executives and industry stakeholders. Represent the airport at airline conferences, air service development forums, and industry events. Develop and maintain strong relationships with airline representatives, economic development organizations, tourism partners, and community stakeholders. Collaborate with marketing and communications teams to support route launches and promotional campaigns.
• Support development and execution of the airport's air service strategic plan. Update passenger and cargo service business plans as needed. Coordinate cross-functionally with finance, operations, and marketing teams to align air service initiatives. Assist with preparation of board materials, strategic reports, and industry briefings.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Position specific responsibilities might include:

• Conduct air service market research and analysis to identify route opportunities and support airline recruitment efforts.
• Develop data-driven business cases and presentations for airline network planners and executive leadership.
• Meet with airline representatives to present market opportunities, traffic data, and incentive programs.
• Monitor and analyze passenger leakage, fare data, capacity trends, and competitive markets.
• Coordinate with regional economic development organizations, chambers of commerce, tourism bureaus, and corporate stakeholders to support air service initiatives.
• Develop and manage airline incentive programs and service agreements in compliance with FAA guidelines.
• Prepare forecasts, traffic reports, and performance analyses for existing and prospective air service.
• Represent the airport at industry conferences, air service development forums, and airline meetings.
• Track industry trends, fleet developments, and network planning strategies to inform recruitment efforts.
• Support community air service marketing initiatives in coordination with airport marketing and communication teams.

Required minimum qualifications:

Education: BA/BS in Aviation, Business, Economics, Statistics, Marketing, Transportation, or a related field; or equivalent combination of education.

Experience: Minimum of 3 years experience in professional air service development, airline network planning, aviation analysis, transportation analysis, data analytics, or a closely related field.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Knowledge of industry economic and business development practices; FAA requirements; and applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
• Knowledge of airport operations and airport business management principles.
• Demonstrated understanding of airline economics, network planning, fleet strategy, scheduling, and route profitability.
• Ability to work with airline network planners, aviation consultants, and managing airline incentive programs or service agreements.
• Ability to evaluate business opportunities, develop data-driven market analyses, and present compelling business cases.
• Advanced analytical and quantitative skills, with proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, Tableau, Power BI, and aviation data platforms.
• Ability to translate complex data into persuasive executive-level presentations.
• Demonstrated written, verbal, and public speaking skills; effective negotiator with the ability to influence stakeholders.
• Ability to formulate and implement procedures, make sound decisions, and assume responsibility.
• Skill set in organization with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to supervise and train staff while maintaining strong working relationships with airlines, tenants, developers, media, and the public.
• Proficiency in computer-based software for written communications and presentations.
• Ability to obtain a valid driver's license for SIDA clearance.
• Ability to travel domestically and occasionally internationally.

Other:

This position requires staff call up in an emergency situation.

This position requires travel from office to other locations.

Physical Requirements:

Depending upon area of assignment:

Positions in this class typically require walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing and repetitive motions. Work is performed in an office setting.

Light Work: Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. If the use of arm and/or leg controls requires exertion of forces greater than that for Sedentary Work and the worker sits most of the time, the job is rated for Light Work.