A Novel Hybrid TFMEREC–ARAS MCDM Approach for Evaluating the Performance of Global Airports

Abstract In today’s world, airports are much more than just transportation hubs. Globalization, technological advancements, and increasing competition have transformed them into strategic centers for planning and development. This transformation necessitates effective resource management, continuous performance improvement, and a robust commitment to achieving sustainable development goals. In this context, scientific research is crucial for improving the operational, environmental, and social sustainability of airports. This study evaluated 20 airports using a novel hybrid multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach called TFMEREC-ARAS, based on 11 different criteria. The analysis identified Bahrain International Airport, Singapore Changi Airport, and Narita International Airport as the three highest-performing airports. These airports achieved strong results in both passenger service and environmental sustainability, clearly demonstrating excellence in operational effectiveness, passenger satisfaction, and overall management quality. The findings underscore the importance of multidimensional performance assessment in airport management, providing valuable insights to practitioners for informed strategic decision-making processes. At the same time, the research contributes to the literature by demonstrating the applicability of the TFMEREC-ARAS method to airport performance analysis. By introducing this hybrid method in this context, the study presents an innovative and valuable framework for future studies, offering practical guidance for airport managers seeking to balance performance, sustainability, and competitiveness.