Promotion of Public Facilities Using Place Names: Nicknames of Airports

Abstract

The number of Japanese domestic aviation passengers is decreasing, and airports run by central and prefectural governments continue to operate at a loss. As a result of an airport-promotion project, many airports have recently opted to use names other than their official names. This article examines the management of regional airports geographically. Referring to place theories, place-name studies, and studies of place promotion, this study interprets airports as places. Municipal governments serve as mediaries between national and local politics and determine nicknames on a geographic scale by soliciting public opinion and acquiring official recognition from higher-level government. The purpose of nicknames is to improve the national recognition and perceived friendliness of airports, as well as to improve their image with regard to sponsored events and the various uses of airport facilities.