ITH Air Service Consultant

• Summary

Ithaca Tompkins International Airport (ITH) is seeking the services of a professional consultant to provide expert guidance in air service development for the Airport for the next three (5) years. The selected consultant will assist ITH in achieving its goals of expanding air service, increasing passenger traffic, and enhancing the airport’s position in the market. The consultant will work closely with ITH and relevant stakeholders to deliver comprehensive strategies and actionable insights.

Key Areas of Focus:

• Market Definition and Analysis: Conduct detailed market research to define and understand potential passenger demand and travel behavior within the region.

• Route Analysis: Evaluate current and potential new routes, identifying opportunities for expansion and optimizing existing services.

• Messaging and Presentation Packages: Develop compelling messaging and presentation materials tailored to airlines and stakeholders to effectively communicate the benefits of partnering with ITH.
• Relationship Development: Foster relationships with key airline decision-makers and stakeholders to advocate for new and expanded air service.

• Incentive Program: Design and propose incentive programs to attract new airlines and encourage the growth of existing services.

• Ongoing Data Support: Provide continuous data analysis and insights to track performance and inform strategic decisions.

• On-Call Research: Offer on-demand research services for any ad-hoc queries or specific analyses needed by ITH.

The consultant’s expertise will be instrumental in navigating the complexities of the airline industry and ensuring the successful implementation of ITH’s air service initiatives. Additional Authorizations of Service may be issued under the agreement during the term of agreement, as conditions warrant.

• Background / Description

Ithaca Tompkins International Airport (ITH) is a vital transportation hub serving Tompkins County and the surrounding region. As a gateway for business and leisure travelers, ITH plays a crucial role in connecting the community to major destinations across the United States and beyond. However, like many regional airports, ITH faces challenges in maintaining and expanding its air service offerings due to fluctuating market conditions, airline industry consolidation, and competition from larger airports.

To address these challenges, ITH is seeking the services of a professional air service development consultant. This consultant will provide strategic guidance and industry expertise to help the airport attract new airline services, enhance existing routes, and improve overall passenger traffic. The consultant’s work will support ITH’s goals of increasing economic impact, improving community connectivity, and ensuring long-term sustainability.

This Request for Proposals (RFP) outlines the scope of work required to achieve these objectives, including market definition and analysis, route development, stakeholder engagement, and the creation of incentive programs. The selected consultant will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of air service at ITH and strengthening the airport’s position as a critical asset for the region.

• Project Goal

The primary goal of this project is to enhance Ithaca Tompkins International Airport's air service portfolio by identifying new market opportunities, strengthening existing routes, and fostering strong relationships with airline partners. This will be achieved through comprehensive market analysis, targeted outreach, and strategic development initiatives. The consultant will work to position ITH as a competitive and attractive option for airlines and travelers alike, thereby increasing passenger traffic, improving connectivity, and supporting the economic growth of the Tompkins County region.