INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AUTOMATED PEOPLE MOVER ASSOCIATION (IAAPMA)	IAAPMA HOME | NEWS AND NOTES

 Association Officers: 2005 - 2009: President, Michael Shumack; Vice President, Gary Houts; Secretary, Victor Howe

The number of airports around the world, which own and operate Automated People Mover (APM) systems, is growing. While there is diversity in the size and design of these systems, they share common characteristics. In many cases, airports face similar challenges and responsibilities in the operation and maintenance of these systems. Because the operation and maintenance of APM systems is not the primary focus of airports there may be a lack of familiarity with APM systems among aviation management.  Given the importance of APM systems to successful airport operation, it is desirable for airports to share their experience and technical knowledge. 

Association: This Association is formed from airport authorities that own and operate APM systems and have committed to forming a professional organization. The mission of this association is to create partnerships that promote professional development and ethical standards which address common aims and objectives of APM system owner-operators. We have identified three key areas to accomplish this mission: Technology, Organization, and Quality Service. In the area of technology, we intend to innovate, promote, and develop cost effective technical solutions for the association and its members. We intend to establish an organization, which will promote a high level of member initiative and involvement through efficient networking. In the area of quality service, we will establish guidelines for APM system operation that will provide benchmarks in the cost-effective delivery of service while remaining responsive to the changing needs of our customers. 

 Membership: Any airport that operates and APM is eligible to join the association. An airport joining the association may designate up to three (3) people to represent it in the association. For the present, dues are not required. In the future, the association may expand to include other APM system owners (other than aviation-related). Membership into this association is predicated upon providing as well as receiving information. Airports that do not complete surveys or provide requested information would not be considered members in good standing and therefore not eligible to receive information or participate in association business.

 Guiding Principles: Because we value objectivity we will be open and honest while promoting an atmosphere where the free exchange of ideas can take place. Because we value effective management, we will promote the exchange of management experience and expertise. We will work to improve management tools and procedures. We will collect and organize reference information. We will also work to establish avenues for professional advancement. Because we value service to customers we will help members develop cost effective technical solutions to meet their needs. Because we value professionalism, we will promote the highest possible ethical standards as well as developing the highest possible level of expertise. Because we value quality and experience, we will establish benchmarks, balance innovation with experience and practicality, and always strive to maintain the highest standards of safety and quality of service. Finally, we intend to be an industry leader by strong participation of the association.