Guidelines for Apron Management at Don Mueang International Airport

Abstract

This research was a qualitative research with objectives (1) to analyze apron management at Donmueang International Airport, and (2) to introduce strategic management to apron management at Donmueang International Airport. The analysis based on a study of documents related to the management of apron at Donmueang International Airport. Furthermore, an in-depth interview was conducted with 11 people and the data were examined with SWOT analysis and TOWS matrix. The findings illustrate that current apron management at Donmueang International Airport involved different aspects as followed: (1) strengths were that apron management system was flexible, standardized and equipped with experienced personnel. (2) Weaknesses were that the number of flights was greater than the airport’s capacity, the number of aircraft stands was limited, and modern operational equipment were insufficient. (3) In terms of opportunity, Donmueang International Airport is a main hub for a great number of low-cost airlines with most medium-size aircrafts, thus the overall management could proceed conveniently. (4) Threats were that there was a tardy work process, airlines did not operate their flights according to allocated slot time and there was also a disabled aircraft problem on aircraft stands. Nevertheless, this research proposed strategic managements for apron management in Donmueang International Airport as (1) to study airlines’ long term business plans to improve aircraft stand service, (2) to implement a law to limit aircraft age or to establish a specific department to strictly oversee and pursue the management of disabled aircraft solidly, (3) to initiate a guideline to assure that airlines comply with the allocated slot time and execute a punishment, and lastly (4) to integrate Airport Collaborative Decision Making; ACDM into apron management for a greater productivity. In consequence, this could run in accordance with strategic operation of Airport of Thailand Public Company Limited in terms of Airport Service Capacity as to ensure and manage appropriate balance between airport capacity and air traffic demand for organization’s sustainable growth.