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Purpose Evolves, but Survey

Results Demonstrate

Naples Airport Remains

Vital to the Community

by Chris Rozansky, Executive Director,
Naples Airport Authority
he Naples Airport “It’s excellent, a great little airport, and does
began operating in 1943 more for the people than most realize.” – Male,
T as a military airfield, ages 75-84.
the training ground for many “I love the airport. I was born and raised in
World War II aviators. A lot has changed Naples and it has been there my whole life. It is a huge part of the
since then. Today, the Naples Airport community, and my boys and I love watching the planes fly over
accommodates private aviation and flight our house!” – Female, ages 35-44.
training schools as well as the Collier Some respondents offered constructive criticism, observations,
County Sheriff’s Office, Collier Mosquito Control District, complaints and suggestions.
U.S. Customs & Border Protection, Collier County MedFlight, “Find a solution to noise” – Female, ages 75-84.
Angel Flight and other public services. “I think Naples needs an airport. It’s a good revenue source. I
Because the community and its airport continue evolving, don’t like the noise, but that’s part of life.” – Female, ages 75-84.
the Naples Airport Authority (NAA) recently captured public “It’s a controversial situation and it is too noisy. If they
opinion – not just anecdotal feedback, but a professional, relocated it out in Collier County, they would complain because
independent survey to measure attitudes, opinions and of the distance.” – Male, ages 85+.
perceptions about the airport and its impact on the community. “Residents complain about plane noise on takeoff and landing
The NAA commissioned American Pulse Research & Polling, – these complaints need to be addressed.” – Female, ages 55-64.
a company considered the “gold standard” within the industry Although dozens of respondents expressed desires to see
for its accuracy and nationally recognized polling methodology. commercial flights return to the NAA, that’s not currently in
The company independently developed more than two dozen the airport’s plans. Noise levels also were a frequent point of
questions designed to capture the sentiment of local voters. contention among respondents; the NAA has invested $10
From March 19 - April 3, American Pulse surveyed 1,421 million in noise abatement initiatives since 2000 and its Noise
registered voters via live telephone interviews and text surveys. Compatibility Committee continues to review solutions to reduce
Results were reported separately for Naples and the rest of noise levels.
Collier County, as well as combined. Across all groups, feedback The NAA’s Board of Commissioners and leadership team are
on the NAA was overwhelmingly positive. reviewing survey responses to help guide discussions as the airport
According to residents surveyed, the Naples Airport: explores additional avenues to meet the needs of the community.
Is important to the community: 82.9% The NAA receives no local tax dollars to fund operations.
Is important to the region’s economy: 81.1% According to the Florida Department of Transportation, the
Is a positive influence on the area’s quality of life: 52.7% airport has an annual economic impact of $781 million and
Has a good or excellent location: 63.9% supports 5,454 jobs within the community.
Should stay in its current location: 63.1% “The Naples Airport enjoys strong support that grows even
“The results reveal strong support for the airport, a clear stronger when residents find out about key aspects of what the
preference to keep it in its current location, and opportunities airport is doing and facts about its situation,” Olson said.
to inform the public about the airport’s economic impact, Complete survey results and methodologies are available
community contributions and funding model which is not online at FlyNaples.com/news
supported by local tax dollars,” said Dustin Olson, managing Want to learn more about the Naples Airport?
partner and lead researcher for American Pulse. Check out our FAQ’s at www.flynaples.com/faq
In addition to multiple choice answers, respondents could For a tour of the airport, or to arrange for a speaker at your group’s
offer commentary. Those word-for-word responses were next meeting, call (239) 643-0733
published in post-survey reports. Below are notable comments For more information, visit the Naples Airport Authority’s website
from residents: at www.flynaples.com
“So convenient and close to town – only 10 to 15 minutes to Want to learn more about the NAA?
get home.” – Male, ages 55-64. Visit the FAQ page of our website (flynaples.com/faq), or invite
“It’s a piece of history. It’s nice to know that the Naples a member of our team to speak with your group.
Airport receives no local taxpayer dollars.” – Female, ages 65-74.
20 www.LifeInNaples.net