Author(s): Sawmya S, LRK Krishnan
Airport privatization in India has brought about changes in people management practices, driven by various privatization models and the integration of technology and innovation. This review explores the impact of privatization on people management strategies in Indian airports, highlighting challenges, opportunities, and implications. The study synthesizes 84 articles including mainly research articles, online sources (such as news articles and reports), and white papers from reputable sources including Scopus, Web of Science (WoS), EBSCO Host, other relevant case studies, and reports. The change management theory followed by a conceptual framework model is used to comprehensively examine the evolving dynamics of people management in airports post-privatization. It focuses on the role of strategic human resource practices in generating revenue, enhancing customer experiences, and prospering under private ownership or public-private partnerships. The review finds that airport privatization can catalyse operational efficiency, infrastructure development, and customer-centric services. It also emphasizes the importance of aligning organizational strategies with talent management practices to maximize the potential of privatized airports. The review offers strategic insights for policymakers, airport authorities, and scholars on how to channel privatisation's transformative power while ensuring the workforce's well-being, development, and productivity.