The Certified Airport Operations Professional/Manager (CAOP)™/(CAOM)™ certification program is a prestigious and globally recognized qualification designed for individuals responsible for managing the complex and dynamic operations of modern airports. As aviation hubs that connect people, goods, and economies, airports must operate with precision, safety, and efficiency to meet passenger expectations, airline requirements, and regulatory standards. This program equips participants with advanced expertise in airside and landside operations, terminal management, safety and security compliance, passenger services, and operational coordination among multiple stakeholders.
Airport operations involve far more than flight schedules—they require the seamless integration of aircraft handling, baggage systems, passenger flow, cargo logistics, ground support services, and emergency response capabilities. Participants will explore topics such as runway and taxiway management, gate allocation, passenger screening, cargo handling, operational planning, environmental sustainability, and the use of technology to optimize efficiency. The curriculum emphasizes safety, regulatory compliance, customer experience, and coordination between airlines, government authorities, and service providers.
Whether overseeing day-to-day terminal functions, managing large-scale airport operations teams, or ensuring compliance with international aviation standards, graduates of the CAOP™/CAOM™ program will be prepared to deliver operational excellence in one of the most critical sectors of global transportation.
Certification Program Objectives:
Upon completing the Certified Airport Operations Professional/Manager (CAOP)™/(CAOM)™ program, participants will be able to:
- Understand Airport Operations Fundamentals – Gain in-depth knowledge of airside, landside, and terminal operations.
- Ensure Compliance and Safety Standards – Implement procedures that meet ICAO, IATA, and national aviation regulations.
- Manage Passenger Flow and Experience – Oversee processes that ensure smooth check-in, security screening, boarding, and baggage handling.
- Coordinate Multi-Stakeholder Operations – Work effectively with airlines, ground handlers, security agencies, and government bodies.
- Leverage Technology for Efficiency – Apply advanced systems for airport management, scheduling, and resource allocation.
- Promote Sustainable Airport Practices – Integrate environmental and energy-efficient initiatives into operational planning.
Certification Eligibility Criteria:
To apply for certification from The Operations Management Institute (OMI), candidates must meet the following criteria:
- A Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution
And/or
- 0–4.9 years relevant experience for Professional level (CAOP)™, or 5+ years for Manager level (CAOM)™.
Note: Applicants who do not hold a Bachelor’s degree but possess exceptional professional experience and hold significant positions within their organizations in a relevant field may also be considered for certification on a case-by-case basis, subject to the approval of the OMI evaluation committee.
Certifying Examination:
- To be certified as CAOP™/CAOM™, student should take up a 1.5 hours online exam conducted by OMI.
- The qualifying exam would consist of 50 multiple choice questions, testing core certification modules.
- Professionals with relevant experience and other qualifying criteria may be exempted from the examination.
Certification Modules:
- Module 1: Fundamentals of Airport Operations and Aviation Industry Overview
- Module 2: Airside Operations – Runway, Taxiway, Apron, and Ground Handling Management
- Module 3: Terminal Operations – Passenger Flow, Baggage Systems, and Security Screening
- Module 4: Cargo and Logistics Operations within Airports
- Module 5: Safety, Security, Emergency Preparedness, and Regulatory Compliance
- Module 6: Airport Resource Management, Technology Integration, and Sustainability Practices
* The Certification Title and its modules are regularly reviewed, updated and may change in alignment with evolving industry needs and regulatory standards.
Who Should Do This Certification:
The CAOP™/CAOM™ certification is ideal for professionals involved in or aspiring to manage airport operations, including:
- Airport Operations Managers – Overseeing day-to-day airside, landside, and terminal functions.
- Airline Station Managers – Coordinating airline operations within airport facilities.
- Ground Handling Supervisors – Managing baggage, cargo, and passenger handling services.
- Aviation Security and Safety Officers – Ensuring compliance with operational and security regulations.
- Aviation Project Managers – Leading airport expansion, technology integration, and operational improvement projects.
- Consultants and Advisors – Providing strategic and operational expertise for airport management.
Key Benefits of CAOP / CAOM Certification
- Professional Recognition – Establishes you as a certified expert in airport operations.
- Career Growth – Positions you for senior operational and managerial roles in aviation.
- Global Relevance – Skills applicable to airports of all sizes worldwide.
- Practical Learning – Focus on real-world airport operational challenges and solutions.
- Professional Network – Join a global community of aviation and airport operations professionals.
- Measurable Impact – Enhance operational efficiency, passenger satisfaction, and safety performance.
- Best Practice Alignment – Based on international aviation operations and ICAO/IATA standards.
The CAOP™/CAOM™ certification applies to commercial airports, regional airports, and specialized aviation facilities worldwide, empowering professionals to deliver efficient, safe, and passenger-focused operations. Whether your goal is career advancement, operational improvement, or aviation leadership, this program provides the expertise to succeed.
