Brian Boyd

This document provides an update on competition at the Albuquerque International Sunport, analyzing trends in air service, airfares, and airline competition from Fiscal Year 2001 to Fiscal Year 2010, with some data extending to July 2011. Key areas of focus include changes in enplaned and originating passenger numbers, the evolving market shares of Southwest Airlines versus other mainline and regional carriers, fluctuations in departing seat capacity, and shifts in average airfares. The analysis also covers changes in nonstop destinations and compares the Sunport's performance to other U.S. benchmark and medium-hub airports.

The board reviewed the Director's report, which included updates on the annual FAA Part 139 inspection and the grand opening of new concessions. Airfield operations provided data on flight statistics, construction project updates including tower and taxiway upgrades, and the status of runway lighting and renaming projects. Business development updates covered upcoming restaurant openings and performance metrics for the Flyside Pass program. Additionally, the committee on community engagement and customer experience provided recommendations for board involvement. The board also conducted the election of officers for the Chair and Vice Chair positions and addressed questions regarding deicing protocols and FAA inspection procedures.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda and the minutes from the previous session. Key discussion points focused on departmental updates, including airfield operations metrics for October and year-to-date figures, noting that total operations at Sunport are above the 5-year rolling average. Significant infrastructure projects are underway, such as the DEII Tower Upgrades being halfway complete and the start of the ABQ Sunport Runway 3/21 Lighting Project. Business development reported on a holiday magazine campaign and the introduction of the 'Flyside Pass' for non-flying guests, with usage metrics provided. Air Service updates noted a 2.3% increase in seat capacity year-over-year, though current enplanements/deplanements are slightly down, and included details on service adjustments by Southwest and United Airlines. A major restructuring of the six existing subcommittees was approved, consolidating them into three focused areas: General Aviation and Operations; Customer Experience, Community Engagement; and Policy and Sustainability. Board members provided input regarding attendance at New Employee Orientation and the potential display of gate numbers on Flight Information Display Boards.

Key discussions during the meeting included updates on the Observation Deck design direction, with 50% documents expected by the end of January, and the soft launch of the 'Sunny the Sunport Chatbot.' Airfield Operations reported November total operations figures, noting DEII Tower Upgrades are halfway complete and the ABQ Sunport Runway 3/21 Lighting Project has commenced, which will result in the runway being redesignated as Runway 4/22. Business development highlighted upcoming restaurant and retail grand openings in January and February. Customer Service provided details on a Public Art Project soliciting freestanding outdoor sculptures with a submission deadline of March 1, 2026. Air Service updates indicated a decrease in seat capacity year-over-year, Southwest Airlines exiting certain routes, and Contour Airlines being awarded the EAS contract for Carlsbad starting March 1, 2026. The Board discussed restructuring the current six subcommittees into three for improved participation. Input from Board members included inquiries about closures in the food hall due to floor-leveling repairs, the timeline for the history exhibit construction (expected start late February), and confirmation that the Sunport contributes to Observation Deck construction costs.

This Sustainable Airport Master Plan for Albuquerque International Sunport evaluates the airport's capabilities, reviews future aviation demand forecasts, and provides systematic guidelines for overall development, maintenance, and operation over the next 20 years. It integrates sustainability principles, setting goals in waste management, energy, air quality, water conservation, surface transportation, and natural resource management. The plan details proposed concepts for airfield, passenger terminal, air cargo, general aviation, and non-aviation development, supported by a capital improvement plan, with the overarching vision of operating the 'greenest' airport system in the country.