Premium Public Parking Services: A Way to Improve Parking Operations at Airports

Abstract

Premium public parking services, such as valet, reserved, and business parking, are becoming increasingly popular at U.S. airports. They offer an enhanced level of customer service; are important business opportunities and sources of revenue for airports; contribute to reduction of curbside congestion, thereby encouraging travelers to park instead of being dropped off or picked up; and improve an airport’s ability to compete with privately operated, off-airport parking facilities. A study was conducted at more than 14 U.S. airports and demonstrated that successful premium public parking services provide a good combination of location, parking capacity, rate structure, quality of service, and business arrangements. Although these factors are very specific to each airport, general guidelines for parking managers who wish to optimize existing parking facilities, maximize net parking revenues, and provide a high level of customer service are outlined.