Strategies for Repurposing an Underutilized Airport: Maximizing Capacity with Innovative Ideas

Strategies for Repurposing an Underutilized Airport: Maximizing Capacity with Innovative Ideas

While the Memphis Airport currently faces challenges, there are numerous opportunities to repurpose the excess capacity with strategic and innovative approaches. This article explores viable strategies and ideas that can help the airport thrive once again.

Part One: Innovative Repurposing Options

Part One offers a range of creative suggestions for repurposing the airport, each with the potential to enhance its functionality and attractiveness. Here are some detailed strategies:

Tax/Duty Free Outlet Shopping Mall

Transforming part of the airport into a tax/duty free outlet shopping mall can attract shoppers both within and beyond the region. To make this viable, the airport could collaborate with retail partners and airlines to offer exclusive deals. Shoppers will find attractive discounts, frequent product updates, and special promotions with various retail and airline partners, enhancing their overall shopping experience.

International FB Food Mart

Developing a food mart that caters to international tastes can become a unique selling point for travelers. The food mart can be strategically located near the shopping area to keep hungry shoppers engaged and excited about continuing their shopping journey. By offering a diverse and exotic food selection, the airport can provide a memorable dining experience.

Airport Hotel

A sensibly priced hotel within the airport can attract weary travelers looking for a convenient place to rest. Perfectly positioned near the shopping area and close to departure gates, the hotel can provide travelers with a comfortable stay, making it a convenient stop for overnight bookings.

Airport Staff Training Center

The existing amenities of the airport terminal can be repurposed into a training center for airport staff. This training center can facilitate front-of-house and back-of-house training, as well as pilot testing of new equipment and systems. It can also serve as a venue for service testing, ensuring that the airport is always at its best.

Film Studio and Art Gallery

Partnering with film studios to use the airport for filming can save on location costs and provide a unique backdrop for scenes. The airport can also attract art lovers by establishing an art gallery. Since the art gallery will not require natural light, it can house several artworks. securing a gallery or foundation partner can ensure the long-term success of this initiative.

Gaming Space and Wellness Center

The airport can transform into a destination for gamers and wellness enthusiasts. Setting up an escape room, a zombie experience, and a paintball maze can attract adventure seekers. Additionally, creating an indoor training and sports center, such as bowling alleys, skating circuits, futsal courts, boxing gyms, or gymnastics centers, can offer a breath of fresh air for travelers, providing a unique experience.

Casino

Establishing a high-end casino can cater to high-rollers. The airport can offer first-class services to these clients, providing a luxurious atmosphere for gaming and relaxation.

Part Two: Retaining Cargo Operations and Enhancing International Reach

Even while looking for innovative ways to repurpose the airport, it is crucial to retain its core cargo operations. Here are some strategies to maintain and enhance the cargo operations:

Charging Attractive Landing Fees and Partnering with Government Agencies

Charging attractive landing fees can incentivize airlines to use the airport. Working with government agencies and private funding institutions can provide additional resources to keep operations running smoothly.

Extending Runways and Partnering with Airline Alliances

Extending the runways to meet the requirements for long-range aircraft can attract more international flights. Partnering with airline alliances can bring in hub operations, improving the international presence of the airport.

Enhancing Passenger Experience and Operations

Providing international standards of service, such as efficient check-in, security, and immigration lounges, can attract more travelers. Tendering operations to reputable airport management companies can bring in expertise and enhance the overall airport experience.

By implementing these strategies, the Memphis Airport can transform its excess capacity into a thriving hub that caters to both passengers and cargo operations. The key is to maintain the core cargo operations while exploring new opportunities for repurposing and enhancing the overall airport experience.