Delve into the intricacies of operating an airport while learning about the variety of business decisions that can affect success.

Airport Management and Operations

Airport Management and Operations Degree

Managing an airport takes more than loading passengers and maintaining runways. It includes security, customer service, knowledge of federal regulations, baggage handling, staffing and more.

When you major in airport management and operations at Purdue University you will gain the expertise necessary to navigate the many aspects of operating an airport. You will gain a broad exposure as an airport manager and analyst with a strong focus on airport operations. Your courses will provide insights into how over 40,000 of the world’s airports and airfields make daily and projected business decisions. Some of your first-year courses include: aviation business, basic aircraft science and aerospace vehicle propulsion and tracking systems.

During your pursuit of an airport management degree, you’ll work with faculty in the School of Aviation and Transportation Technology who have years of experience in industry or research.

SPECIAL FEATURES

  • Study at an aviation school with the country’s first university-owned airport with the state’s second busiest air traffic control tower. The Purdue University Airport gives Purdue students an opportunity for real-time immersion into an airport setting.
  • Take advantage of firsthand knowledge from professors who have worked in all aspects of the industry to get full scope of aviation business and operations.
  • Explore other aspects of the aviation industry as your learn alongside students with majors in professional flight, airline management and operations, unmanned aerial systems and more.
  • Engage with industry on a regular basis and be considered for their internships and other placement opportunities. Beyond Purdue University and Polytechnic career fairs, airport management and operations majors can take advantage of an annual career fair planned for all students in the School of Aviation and Transportation Technology.
  • Learn around a top-of-the-line fleet, which includes nearly 30 airplanes and several training simulators.
  • Utilize the Polytechnic learning environment to become a career-ready graduate

What can I do?

Airport manager
Airport financial analyst
Airport operations supervisor
Airport development consultant

Where can I go?

Federal Aviation Administration
Regional Airports
International Airports
Travel Management Company
I wanted a very hands-on, jump right in kind of environment and am very thankful I was directed to Purdue Polytechnic. I started getting real experience from my first year, and I’ve gotten to know several professors who do whatever it takes to make sure people are learning.
Tyler Housholder
Aviation Management
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About the school/department

The School of Aviation and Transportation Technology is focused on providing the education and skills necessary to create and build airworthy machines, manage all facets of the aviation industry, and safely pilot aircraft for a variety of consumers. Research projects touch on the same topics as well as NextGen aviation challenges, alternative aviation fuel and general aviation issues.

Additional Information

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Talk to an Advisor

Prospective students

Prospective students can reach out to aviationadvisors@purdue.edu to request an appointment to speak with a School of Aviation and Transportation Technology advisor or student services professional.

Current students

Current students can schedule an appointment to meet with academic advisors in person or virtually via BoilerConnect.

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Continuing Education