The Santa Barbara Airport Commission convened on February 19, 2025, to discuss significant developments and future strategies for the airport, highlighting a record-setting year for passenger traffic and ongoing marketing initiatives aimed at enhancing air service.

During the meeting, it was reported that the airport welcomed over 1.4 million passengers in the previous calendar year, marking a notable increase in usage. This growth is attributed to effective marketing programs and air service development efforts. The airport's marketing supervisor, Angie Doss, emphasized the importance of community engagement and strategic marketing in attracting travelers, particularly as the airport prepares for upcoming terminal improvement projects.

Doss also shared insights from the recent Routes Americas conference, where discussions with eight airlines took place. While no new routes were announced, the absence of negative news was viewed positively amid current challenges in the aviation industry, such as aircraft delivery delays.

A highlight of the meeting was the announcement that the airport would receive the Community Impact Award at an upcoming Chamber of Commerce ceremony, recognizing its contributions to the local community.

The commission reviewed the airport's marketing strategies, which include a new advertising campaign designed to enhance brand awareness and promote the airport's global connectivity. The campaign, developed in collaboration with Hilltop Marketing Group, aims to attract more travelers by emphasizing the ease of access and the variety of destinations available from Santa Barbara Airport.

In addition to traditional advertising methods, the marketing team has implemented innovative strategies, such as targeted email campaigns and social media retargeting, to reach potential travelers effectively. The results from these initiatives have shown promising engagement, with significant increases in click-through rates and overall bookings.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous approval of the consent calendar, allowing the commission to move forward with its plans and initiatives. As the airport continues to grow and adapt to the evolving travel landscape, these discussions underscore the importance of strategic marketing and community involvement in fostering a thriving transportation hub for Santa Barbara County.