What is a primary purpose of internal and external audits in airport contracting and procurement?

• A. Write new contracts
• B. Increase supplier exclusivity
• C. Reduce transparency
• D. Independently verify compliance

Answer: (D)

Audits in airport contracting and procurement aim to provide objective, independent confirmation that processes and outcomes meet established policies, laws, and contract terms. The key is verifying compliance to ensure accountability, transparency, and proper use of public funds. Internal audits examine the effectiveness of controls and procedures, while external audits offer an independent check for regulators, boards, or financiers. This independent verification helps detect deviations, mitigate risk, and support continuous improvement in procurement governance.

The other options don’t fit because audits aren’t about drafting new contracts, nor do they seek to increase supplier exclusivity or reduce transparency. Instead, audits are about checking that contracts and procurement activities follow the rules and are open to scrutiny.