Hello Aspirant,

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Airport managers oversee the daily operations of an airport, ranging from enforcing Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules and regulations to negotiating airport contracts and leases. They may be responsible for supervising personnel, devising and implementing operating procedures, monitoring airport expenditures, and coordinating construction or renovation projects with municipal officials. Because of their level of responsibility, airport managers may be on-call so that emergencies or other unexpected issues that come up can be resolved quickly; this job can include evening and weekend shifts.

Qualifications Required:
Airport managers usually hold a bachelor's degree in airport management or a related field. These 4-year degree programs cover aviation science, aerodynamics, and physics, as well as airport economics, finance, and management. Students also take classes in FAA regulations, aviation safety, and air transportation operations. Some aviation management programs may offer flight courses to prepare students for the FAA private pilot certification exam. Internship opportunities with government agencies, local airports, or commercial airlines may be offered as well.

Employers often prefer applicants who possess the Accredited Airport Executive (AAE) credential offered by the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE). Airport personnel need at least one year of work experience and a bachelor's degree in order to qualify for this credential; they also need to be affiliate members of the AAAE and 21 years of age or older. Candidates who don't have a bachelor's degree must have at least eight years of airport management experience.

Hope this helps and good luck!