A Sector-specific supplier selection framework for airport city development

Abstract

The development of airport cities requires integrating both aeronautical and non-aeronautical services through strategic supplier partnerships. This study focuses on establishing a structured supplier selection framework for the Bandaranaike International Airport City (BIA City), considering two key industries: ground handling (aeronautical) and logistics and freight (non-aeronautical). A mixed-methods approach was adopted, beginning with a comprehensive literature review and document analysis, followed by 24 structured expert interviews to identify and validate supplier evaluation criteria. Criteria were prioritized using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), and categorized into strategic groups such as cost, quality, compliance, and innovation. The outcome is a decision-making framework that supports transparent, criteria-driven supplier evaluation in complex infrastructure projects. This framework contributes to both academic research and practical procurement practices in the emerging context of Sri Lankan airport cities.