ABSTRACT
Airports must be strategically designed with consideration given to security and regulatory requirements, passenger flow, clear signage, minimal walking distances, minimal passenger cross-flows, and people movers such as shuttles or moving sidewalks. The entire airside of the airport must be enclosed with perimeter fencing – and because an airport typically covers a large area, the fencing needs are extensive. The purpose of the fence is to maintain airport security, by preventing unlawful acts and the entry of wildlife. Airport revenue falls into two categories: aeronautical and non-aeronautical. Airport revenue is directly linked to the strength of the economy and the likelihood that people will choose to travel by air. Airports are highly regulated, and regulatory changes can create additional expenses. For example, new regulation may result in the need to modify an aspect of a runway or to purchase equipment. Overall, airports are organizations with high fixed costs and variable revenue sources.
