Let's keep all relevant SAT airport news and updates consolidated into this thread and hopefully the moderators will make it a "sticky" to keep it at the top.
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With the news that Mayor Nirenberg is wanting to push a brand new terminal for SAT, San Antonio Business Journal posted an article about how the airport received high marks from JD Power for the mid size category.
https://www.bizjournals.com/sananton...-jd-power.html
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San Antonio International Airport has earned high marks for passenger satisfaction at a time when many Americans have avoided air travel due to concerns associated with Covid-19.
J.D. Power has ranked SAT among the top 15 such facilities overall in its 2020 North American Airport Satisfaction Study.
The high standing is the result of local airport officials' "continued emphasis on customer service and great operational performance across all the factors that J. D. Power measures," said Michael Taylor, travel intelligence leader for the company.
"SAT partners especially well with [the Transportation Security Administration], and passengers highly rate their experience passing through security," Taylor said.
SAT scored 811 points overall in the new study — not far off the 2020 average of 812 points.
The Alamo City airport tied for the No. 10 spot among midsize facilities. That's notable, according to Taylor.
"The medium category is the most competitive," he said.
Jesus Saenz, director of airports for the city of San Antonio, is pleased that travelers have recognized local officials' efforts to improve the North Side terminals, including new food, beverage and retail options.
"SAT does a very good job with the operations side of the airport, especially in security check efficiency and terminal facilities," Taylor said.
J.D. Power officials said an expected sharp decline in passenger volume due to the pandemic has boosted overall travelers satisfaction — especially in the areas of check-in, food and beverage and retail. While company officials said that's not sustainable long-term, the reduced traffic has given airports an opportunity to advance capital projects and other improvements.
The study found that airports with a mall-like experience and local flavor help increase passenger satisfaction.
The study, which is in its 15th year, is based on completed surveys from U.S. and Canadian residents who traveled through at least one airport in either country during a 30-day period. It covers departure and arrival experiences during the past 30 days.
The study was conducted from August 2019 through July 2020. It tracks data based on six factors: terminal facilities, airport accessibility, baggage claim, security check, check-in/baggage check, food, beverage and retail.
"SAT’s commitment to creating a smooth experience, even during this Covid-19 crisis, is apparent in its consistently high scores," Taylor said.