Passenger airports in Texas have formed the Texas Commercial Airports Association as a way to join forces on airport issues that will support new economic development and benefit travelers.
“By coming together as an organization, the passenger airports in Texas can speak through one clear, strong voice,” says Mario Diaz, director of the Houston Airport System and TCAA chairman. “Collectively, we believe we have greater influence than any one of our airports can have individually.”
It is the first time that commercial airports in Texas have teamed to work on issues of mutual issues.
“San Antonio International, and all Texas airports face numerous challenges in regards to funding, security and economic issues,” says Frank R. Miller, city of San Antonio aviation director. “The airport plays a huge role in the economic vitality of the city and the region. As the city grows, it is imperative that we are prepared to meet the city’s needs.”
The formation of the TCAA was brought about by several issues, including federal airport funding mechanisms, development and infrastructure needs, security policies, business initiatives and operational concerns.
The group also aims to educate lawmakers and policy makers about the economic contributions of airports to their regions. Texas commercial airports create more than 714,720 full-time jobs with annual earnings of approximately $20B and $45B in annual economic activity; they serve more than 135 million each year.
“Commercial airports drive growth and job creation in diverse segments of our state, national and international economies,” says David Cain, executive director of the TCAA and a former state senator. “Now with the creation of TCAA, Texas commercial airports will be able to leverage their resources to maximize that growth.”
“Airports continue to serve as important business drivers for Texas, which has one of the strongest state economies in the nation,” says Dallas/Fort Worth International (DFW) CEO Jeff Fegan, who also serves on the TCAA board. “Besides airline industry jobs, commercial passenger airports also support many other industries such as cargo shipping, warehousing, tourism and commercial development.”
The TCAA is modeled after similar associations in California and Florida. Membership is open to all commercial airports with scheduled airline service in Texas.
