Austin-Bergstrom International Airport wins inaugural ACI-NA award for community outreach

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) has been named the inaugural winner of the Community Education and Outreach – Off Campus category in the 2026 Excellence in Airport Marketing, Communications, and Customer Experience Awards, presented by Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA).

Announced on 21 October 2026, the awards recognise airport initiatives across the United States and Canada that enhance the passenger experience and strengthen relationships with local communities.

AUS received the award for its participation in the 2026 Blues on the Green concert series at Zilker Park, a popular Austin community event. The airport used the opportunity to engage with thousands of local residents, answer questions about its Journey With AUS expansion programme, share airport updates and distribute educational materials and promotional items.

The initiative also included a public art engagement activity delivered in partnership with Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment (ACME) and its Art in Public Places programme. Local artist Malti Lee led an interactive session inviting concertgoers to contribute ideas for a future public art installation at the airport.

Participants learned about the artistic process and shared feedback to help shape artwork reflecting Austin’s cultural identity and creative community.

“This award is a tremendous honor and a proud moment for our airport,” said Ghizlane Badawi, Chief Executive Officer of Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. She added that the recognition reflected the team’s commitment to community engagement and its efforts to share airport developments while celebrating Austin’s culture.

Through the initiative, AUS sought to increase public awareness of airport projects, strengthen community relationships and provide residents with opportunities to contribute to the airport’s development.

The award recognises the airport’s approach to community outreach and its role as both a major transportation hub and a partner in the wider Austin community.