Airport Manager's Handbook

This handbook covers the essential knowledge every GA airport manager needs, drawn directly from FAA advisory circulars, federal regulations, and ACRP research. Eight chapters, each designed to stand alone as a reference or be read in sequence as a comprehensive guide.

1. 1
   What Kind of Airport Are You?

   NPIAS classifications, Part 139 vs. non-Part 139, and what your airport's role in the system means for funding and operations.
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2. 2
   Your Federal Obligations

   Grant assurances in plain language — revenue diversion, exclusive rights, maintenance requirements, and the Part 16 enforcement process.
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3. 3
   Running a Safe Airfield

   Self-inspection programs, NOTAM procedures, wildlife management, fuel safety, and building a documentation trail that protects you.
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4. 4
   Leases, Tenants, and Minimum Standards

   Fair market lease rates, essential lease provisions, developing minimum standards, tenant management, and hangar use compliance.
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5. 5
   Revenue, Budgets, and Federal Funding

   Building a sustainable revenue base, AIP funding mechanics, state grant programs, and capital improvement planning.
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6. 6
   Planning Your Airport's Future

   Master plans, Airport Layout Plans, hangar development analysis, Part 77 airspace protection, and defending against incompatible land use.
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7. 7
   Emergency Preparedness

   Developing an airport emergency plan, mutual aid agreements, fuel spill response, and tabletop exercises for small airports.
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8. 8
   Community Relations and Communicating Your Value

   Economic impact communication, stakeholder engagement, noise complaint management, and building the community support your airport needs to survive.
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