From Parking to Retail: HOW DO AIRPORTS MAKE MONEY?

Airports are not just places where planes land and take off. They are complex businesses with multiple revenue streams. From retail and food concessions to parking fees and airline fees, airports generate revenue from a variety of sources. In this article, we will explore how airports actually make money and provide examples to illustrate the different revenue streams.

What are the sources of income for airports?

Airline Fees

One of the primary revenue streams for airports is airline fees. Airlines pay landing fees, gate fees, and terminal fees to use the airport’s facilities. Landing fees are based on the weight of the aircraft and the distance flown. Gate fees are charged for the use of a specific gate, and terminal fees cover the cost of using the terminal facilities. These fees can vary depending on the airport, and some airports offer incentives to airlines to encourage them to use their facilities.

For example, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the busiest airport in the world, charges landing fees based on aircraft weight and charges a gate fee of $8.60 per 1,000 pounds of maximum gross weight. The airport also charges a terminal fee of $4.50 per passenger.

Retail and Food Concessions

Airports also generate revenue from retail and food concessions. These businesses pay rent to the airport to operate in the terminal building. The airport benefits from the rent and a percentage of the revenue generated by the businesses. Retail and food concessions are popular with travelers, who often have time to eat before their flights. This revenue stream has become increasingly important for airports as airlines have cut back on services such as in-flight meals.

For example, John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York has a variety of retail and food options for passengers, including luxury brands such as Hermes and Gucci, as well as fast-food chains like McDonald’s and Dunkin’ Donuts. These businesses pay rent to the airport, and the airport receives a percentage of their revenue.

Parking Fees

Another revenue stream for airports is parking fees. Airports charge passengers for parking their vehicles in the airport parking lots. The fees can vary depending on the duration of the parking, the location of the parking lot, and the level of service provided. Some airports offer valet parking and shuttle services to and from the terminal building.

For example, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport charges $24 per day for parking in the terminal garages and $10 per day for parking in the remote parking lots. The airport also offers valet parking for $34 per day.

Rental Car Concessions

Rental car concessions are another revenue stream for airports. Rental car companies pay rent to the airport to operate in the airport terminal building. The airport also receives a percentage of the revenue generated by rental car companies.

For example, Los Angeles International Airport has rental car companies such as Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise operating in the airport terminal building. These companies pay rent to the airport, and the airport receives a percentage of their revenue.

Advertising

Airports also generate revenue from advertising. Companies pay to advertise their products or services in the airport terminal building. The airport benefits from the revenue generated by the advertising For example, Heathrow Airport in London has advertising space throughout the terminal building, including billboards, digital screens, and sponsorship opportunities. Companies pay to advertise in these spaces, and the airport receives revenue from the advertising.

Conclusion

Airports are complex businesses that generate revenue from a variety of sources. Airline fees, retail and food concessions, parking fees, rental car concessions, and advertising are just a few of the revenue streams for airports. Each revenue stream requires careful management and planning to ensure that the airport is profitable. Understanding how airports make money is important for passengers and airline industry professionals, as it provides insight into the challenges and opportunities facing the aviation industry.