Hartsfield-Jackson’s social media portfolio grows to four
By Katena Carvajales

Hartsfield-Jackson continues to expand its efforts to keep customers informed through social media. In addition to connecting with passengers through a YouTube channel, a Facebook fan page and a Flickr Photostream, the Airport now is providing its “followers” with regular updates on a new Twitter page.

The Airport entered the social media realm in December 2008, when it launched its YouTube channel. The channel, which has almost 25,000 channel views, features a variety of videos, including virtual tours of the new concessions and updates on the construction of the Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal.

On April 1, a special behind-the-scenes look at Hartsfield-Jackson’s renowned automated people mover (APM) was posted on YouTube as well as the Airport’s Facebook fan page. The video is connected with the Airport’s social media contest to “Name the Train” — another strategy for the Airport to connect with the public through the sites.

Customers have responded with enthusiasm to the YouTube channel.

“I love the Airport’s YouTube channel!” said frequent flier Ashley Williams. “I didn’t know a dog park existed until I saw the video online.”

In addition to YouTube and Facebook, Hartsfield-Jackson shares photos from its past, present and even future — construction shots of the international terminal — on its Flickr Photostream.

The newest addition to Hartsfield-Jackson’s social media campaign, Twitter, enables the Airport to keep the public informed with quick, up-to-the-minute updates about events, concessions deals and other developments at the Airport. The page already has more than 1,000 followers.

“We are very excited about the new connection that we are able to make with customers,” said Myrna White, director of the Office of Public Affairs. “In addition, we are able to answer the questions or address concerns in an unfiltered manner and enhance their travel experience.”