Stop Ignoring Your Airport And Start Promoting Its Growth

ImpactAir: The Aviation Advantage for Communities gives economic developers, airport executives/managers, elected officials, and industry stakeholders a resource to explore. 

“Your airport is an economic engine,” I told the city council member.  

“I haven’t visited the airport,” she replied. 

“That’s the problem.” 

Community leaders often describe their local airport as a problem to be solved. They worry that the costs are too high or that more activity will increase noise complaints. They view their airport as a liability rather than that it really is: an anchor asset that will attract investment, workers, and growth. 

Advancements in aviation will continue to make communities more accessible and give residents more travel opportunities, which means that your airport is not the problem. It is the solution. 
Golden Shovel Agency has been helping communities understand their airport’s value with our published research. Now, we have released the impactAIR Airport Opportunity Scorecard. This diagnostic tool will give you a baseline report on your airport's economic readiness and highlight areas for improvement. 

That insight is especially important considering that communities continue to discuss their public-use airports mainly as transportation infrastructure, operating obligations or capital projects. Your airport is more than just a runway; it is a visible, market-ready platform for investment, jobs, corporate access, and long-term competitiveness.

Communities need to promote their airport. Our research shows that communities that lose air access experience slower medical response times and measurably higher mortality rates. Life-saving medical access diminishes or is eliminated. 

Our Opportunity Scorecard is a 15-question survey that will allow us to compile a report detailing your airport's readiness for economic promotion.  
We believe in the power of airports and want you to have the best information available.  

Are you ready to unlock your airport's potential? Complete the Aviation Opportunity Scorecard to determine your airport’s readiness for growth and opportunity. 

Ron Kresha is a founding member of Golden Shovel Agency, an avid pilot and an aviation strategist. He is a leading voice for airport strategy development and economic development. He frequently presents his research at aviation and economic development conferences.