planning and approval phases take time.
VI. NEW BUSINESS
Passenger Demand Analysis Discussion
Mike displayed the most recent Passenger Demand Analysis from the FLYCOU website,
which contained information through 2017. Tom Richards asked if there is a plan for
updating this analysis. Mike explained that Mead & Hunt is in the process of updating it
and will have a completed plan soon. Tom requested a review of the new PDA by the
consultant from Mead & Hunt, and Mike said that he will try to arrange to have one join
via Zoom for either the April or May meeting, depending on when it’s completed. Matt
Jenne inquired what the normal time between completing these analyses is, and Stacey
Button responded that in her experience it has
been between three and five years, although this one was delayed by the pandemic. Gary
Thompson said that it would be helpful for marketing efforts, and Tom added that the data
would be helpful in understanding what share of the market is using COU so that they
can guide objectives on how to capture the remaining market share. He also suggested
that the analysis be completed more frequently. Matt suggested that even older data is
helpful to show COU’s proven track record even before the pandemic. Jon stated that
distributing informational brochures or pamphlets about the Airport would be useful in
attracting interest, and Gary added that this practice used to be common and was very
effective. Mike stated that the Airport will be re-evaluating where advertising dollars are
spent, noting that at the Lake of the Ozarks they recently took out a full-page ad in an
area magazine as well as a billboard installation. Jon said that ultimately adding more
flights and airlines will be the most successful tool in getting people to fly COU. He added
that it may be too soon to start advertising, as they may want to wait until the cell service
has been improved and the concessions vendor is open for business. Matt responded
that food and cell service won’t necessarily change anyone’s mind and that they will fly
out of COU when it’s the most convenient and/or the cheapest option. Tom wanted it
noted in the minutes that the Board has requested to see the final Passenger Demand
Analysis and discuss it with a consultant once completed.
On-time Arrivals and Departures Data
Mike displayed the United States Department of Transportation graph that was shared
with the board prior to the meeting. This graph showed information regarding the total
arrivals compared to the total on time flights by month, as well as a chart showing the
reasons for the delayed arrivals. Tom noted this data shows that the biggest cause of late
arrivals in 2021 was the aircraft arriving late, and asked if there is any data that shows
late arrivals that COU has control over. Mike said that the maintenance agreement that
they are working on will help alleviate late departures due to aircraft maintenance. Tom
pointed out that the Columbia Regional Airport’s on time performance is about the same
as the airports in St. Louis and Kansas City, which would be another good reason to
provide this information publicly. Britt Smith stated that the challenge is that if your flight
is delayed in St. Louis, you have other flights available as an option. Gary asked if there
was corresponding departure data, and Tom stated that there is but that he would like to
discuss with a consultant on how to gather the right data in order to present it correctly.
Gary Thompson motioned to see the arrival and departure data and analysis of
that data (including comparisons to Kansas City and St. Louis airports) twice a
year. BJ Hunter seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
VII. REPORTS
Report from Mike Parks
Mike Parks presented his report to the Board:
-He will continue to update Board on AT&T cell service improvements.