What determines flight routes, airport locations, and airline profitability? The answers often extend beyond technical considerations, pointing to the "invisible hand" of government policy. The prosperity of the air transport sector largely depends on the formulation and implementation of public policies. Recognizing this critical intersection, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has partnered with Carleton University's Transportation Policy Innovation Center to launch a Professional Certificate in Air Transport Principles and Policy.
Bridging the Knowledge Gap
This certification program aims to equip professionals with a solid foundation in understanding how government policies influence the economic and regulatory environment of civil aviation. The curriculum examines both the operational dynamics of air transport and the impact of public policy, while also considering the objectives, pressures, and assumptions that shape the economic framework governing the industry.
A persistent challenge exists between industry stakeholders and policymakers. Airlines, airport authorities, and air navigation service providers frequently underestimate the complexity of policy formulation and overestimate the speed of policy change. Conversely, governments may lack sufficient understanding of the economic pressures facing these aviation entities when crafting regulations.
Program Overview
The IATA-Carleton University Professional Certificate seeks to bridge this divide by developing professionals capable of effective communication and mutual understanding between industry and government. Through systematic study, participants will master the operational principles of air transport and gain deep insight into the logic of policy formulation.
Program Benefits
Upon completion, participants will be able to:
- Enhance influence: Gain capability to shape national and international frameworks that support a vibrant air transport sector meeting societal and economic needs.
- Public sector advancement: Demonstrate comprehensive theoretical and practical understanding of industry operations and financial sustainability challenges.
- Private sector development: Expand knowledge of industry operations and government decision-making processes to become effective interlocutors for companies and the broader aviation sector.
Curriculum Structure
The program consists of five live online courses completed in sequential steps:
Step 1: Complete Three Core Courses
- Fundamentals of the Air Transport System
- Public Policy and Regulation in Civil Aviation
- Economics of Air Transport
Step 2: Select a Specialization Track
Choose one specialization and complete its required course:
- Airline Track: Fundamentals of Airline Business
- Airport Track: Airport Master Planning
- Safety Track: Airline Safety Management Systems (SMS)
- Security Track: Aviation Security Management
- Environmental Track: Aviation and the Environment
Step 3: Complete One Elective Course
Select from a comprehensive list of elective offerings applicable to all specializations.
Course Details
1. Fundamentals of the Air Transport System
This course provides a holistic understanding of aviation's key components—airlines, airports, air traffic management, regulatory bodies, and international organizations. Participants examine historical development, current status, and future trends while analyzing interactions between system elements.
2. Public Policy and Regulation in Civil Aviation
Focusing on government's role, this course explores how policies and regulations shape industry development. Participants study regulatory evolution, current frameworks, and future trends, with emphasis on policy impacts across airline operations, airport development, and airspace management.
3. Economics of Air Transport
Applying economic principles, this course analyzes market supply-demand dynamics, cost structures, and pricing strategies. Participants examine airline revenue management, airport charging mechanisms, and competitive market landscapes to understand economic influences on profitability and operational efficiency.
4. Fundamentals of Airline Business
Providing a comprehensive view of airline operations, this course covers strategic planning, marketing, operational management, and financial oversight. Participants explore business models, route networks, fleet management, and customer service strategies for enhanced efficiency and profitability.
5. Airport Master Planning
Focusing on airport design and development, this course addresses site selection, runway configuration, terminal design, and ground transportation. Participants learn planning processes, capacity assessment methods, and sustainability strategies for creating safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible airports.
Admission Requirements
- A university degree is recommended, though equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
- Participants should be currently employed or recently appointed to policy-making or regulatory governance roles in aviation.
- Recommended English proficiency: ICAO Operational Level 4.
Target Audience
The program is designed for:
- Junior and mid-level analysts/managers in government agencies, aviation organizations, or entities interacting with air transport.
- Senior government officials assuming new aviation policy responsibilities.
- Airline, airport, and air navigation service managers requiring influential government relations.