Airport Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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airport
[ˈeəpɔːt ]
Definitions
transportation
An airport is a place where airplanes take off and land, equipped with runways and terminals for passengers.
Synonyms
aerodrome, airfield, aviation center.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| airport |
Commonly used for major hubs of commercial air travel where passengers board and disembark flights, including facilities like terminals, runways, and control towers.
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| aerodrome |
Primarily used in British English and often refers to any location from where flight operations occur. Can include both airports and smaller airstrips.
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| airfield |
Commonly used for smaller aviation facilities, typically military or private, which may not have extensive passenger services or terminals.
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| aviation center |
Refers to a facility dedicated to various aspects of aviation beyond just transportation, such as training, maintenance, and research.
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Examples of usage
- The airport was bustling with travelers rushing to catch their flights.
- She arrived at the airport early to avoid any delays.
- We had to wait at the airport for several hours due to bad weather.
security
An airport is also a location where security measures are in place to ensure the safety of passengers and prevent unauthorized access.
Synonyms
air terminal, terminal building.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| airport |
General term for a place where aircraft take off and land; includes all the associated buildings, runways, and facilities.
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| air terminal |
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.
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| terminal building |
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.
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Examples of usage
- The airport has strict security protocols in place.
- Passengers are required to go through security screening before boarding their flights.
business
An airport can also refer to the authority or organization responsible for operating and managing the facilities and services at an airport.
Synonyms
airport management, aviation authority.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| airport |
An organization responsible for running airport operations and ensuring the safety and efficiency of air travel.
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| aviation authority |
A government or regulatory body responsible for overseeing aircraft operations, airworthiness, and aviation safety within a specific region or country.
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| airport management |
Refers to the group of professionals who are responsible for the overall operations, planning, and maintenance of the airport.
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Examples of usage
- The airport announced plans for expansion and renovation.
- She works for the airport as a customer service representative.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The first commercial airport, College Park Airport in Maryland, USA, opened in 1909 and is still operational today.
- The term 'airport' originated in the 1920s, combining 'air' and 'port', which originally designated a place where ships dock.
Engineering
- Modern airports require detailed planning, accommodating runway lengths, taxiways, and terminal buildings to handle thousands of passengers.
- Facilities like security checkpoints, baggage claim areas, and customs are crucial to ensure smooth operations.
Global Connectivity
- There are over 40,000 airports worldwide, making it possible for travelers to connect globally in a matter of hours.
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the busiest in the world based on passenger numbers, with over 107 million travelers in 2019.
Cultural Impact
- Airports often become cultural crossroads, where travelers from different backgrounds and regions meet and share experiences.
- Films like 'The Terminal' highlight the unique and often emotional stories that play out in airports, from reunions to farewells.
Economics
- Airports are key economic drivers, creating jobs and supporting local businesses from ground transportation to hospitality.
- In 2017, it was estimated that the aviation industry contributed over $2.7 trillion to the global economy.
Origin of 'airport'
The word 'airport' originated in the early 20th century, combining 'air' and 'port' to describe a location for aircraft. The concept of airports has evolved over time, from simple fields for aircraft to complex facilities with advanced technology. Airports play a crucial role in modern transportation, connecting people and goods across the globe.
See also: comport, deport, export, passport, port, portability, portable, portal, portend, portent, porter, porters, portion, portly, portrait, viewport.