At the April 3, 2019 Commission Meeting, Executive Director Kelly advised the Commission that Savannah was considered as the host city for the 2020 National Airport’s Conference and the anticipated host commitment sponsorship of $60,000. The National Airport’s Conference is one of AAAE’s signature meetings and traditionally attracts more than 300 attendees, primarily Accredited Airport Executives, including Chapter and Board members from across the county. Due to the unprecedented circumstances of the COVID-19 economic shutdown, this is the only remaining national conference AAAE has planned for 2020. This is the second time the conference will be hosted in Savannah by the Savannah Airport Commission from September 27th – 29th at the Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa. The conference was previously hosted from September 20 – 22, 2015, and drew record attendance. Staff is working closely with our CVB partners at Visit Savannah and AAAE to promote the Airport and the city as “Open for Business.” The Host Airport Sponsorship commitment includes hosting the AAAE Leadership Dinner on Saturday, September 26, 2020; hosting an evening event on Monday, September 28; participation in the NAC Conference Planning Committee; assistance in providing speakers where appropriate and assistance with sponsorship efforts; coordinate a tour of the Airport and Gulfstream (windshield tour) to include transportation and meeting and greeting AAAE Leadership at the Airport. This is a 2020 budgeted item.

Approval