Airport: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used for major hubs of commercial air travel where passengers board and disembark flights, including facilities like terminals, runways, and control towers.

• We need to get to the airport at least two hours before our flight.
• The airport was very crowded during the holiday season.

Primarily used in British English and often refers to any location from where flight operations occur. Can include both airports and smaller airstrips.

• The old military aerodrome is now used for private aviation.
• They are building a new aerodrome in the countryside for light aircraft.

Commonly used for smaller aviation facilities, typically military or private, which may not have extensive passenger services or terminals.

• The airfield is used mainly for training pilots and emergency landings.
• Aircraft enthusiasts often gather at the local airfield for shows.

Refers to a facility dedicated to various aspects of aviation beyond just transportation, such as training, maintenance, and research.

• The aviation center offers courses for aspiring pilots.
• Maintenance technicians are trained at the aviation center.

General term for a place where aircraft take off and land; includes all the associated buildings, runways, and facilities.

• We arrived at the airport three hours before our flight
• The new airport is very modern and spacious

More specific term often used to refer to a building within an airport where passengers check in, go through security, and wait for flights. It is closely associated with passenger services.

• The air terminal was crowded with holiday travelers
• They are building a new air terminal to handle more passengers

Refers specifically to the main building at an airport used by passengers for check-in, security, and boarding aircraft; it focuses on the structure itself.

• We had a cup of coffee while waiting in the terminal building
• The terminal building has several shops and restaurants

An organization responsible for running airport operations and ensuring the safety and efficiency of air travel.

• The airport has implemented new security measures
• The airport is undergoing renovations to improve passenger experience

A government or regulatory body responsible for overseeing aircraft operations, airworthiness, and aviation safety within a specific region or country.

• The aviation authority issued new guidelines for pilot training
• The aviation authority is investigating the incident

Refers to the group of professionals who are responsible for the overall operations, planning, and maintenance of the airport.

• Airport management decided to expand the parking facility
• Effective airport management is crucial for handling high passenger volumes