Airports
Airports
An airport is a place where airplanes can land or take off. Most airports in the world have
only a long strip of level ground called a runway. Many airports have buildings which
are used to hold airplanes and passengers. A building that holds passengers waiting
for their planes or luggage is called a terminal. The sections between planes and the
terminal are called "gates". Airports also have buildings called hangars to hold planes
when they are not used. Some airports have buildings to control the airport, like a
control tower which tells planes where to go.
HISTORY
The history of airports is quite fascinating and reflects the evolution of aviation itself.
Here are some key points:
1. Early Beginnings: The concept of an airport, or a designated area for the
landing and takeoff of aircraft, has been around since the early days of flight.
The first recorded use of an airport was in 1909 at College Park Airport in
Maryland, USA.
2. First Airports: The first airport in Europe was established in 1909 at Toulouse-
Blagnac Airport in France by Louis Blériot, who also invented airplanes2. In the
United States, Mines Field near Los Angeles, which later became Los Angeles
International Airport (LAX), opened in 1924.
Airports have evolved from simple airstrips to sophisticated complexes, reflecting
advancements in aviation technology and the growing importance of air travel in our
lives.
Significance of Airports
1. Transportation Hub
2. Economic Growth
3. Cultural Exchange
4. Generating Employment
Types of Airport
Airports are complex facilities with various components, each serving specific
functions to ensure smooth operations. Here are some of the key components and
their functions:
1. Runways
• Function: Runways are the primary areas where aircraft take off and land. They
are designed to handle the weight and speed of aircraft during these critical
phases of flight.
TYPES OF RUNWAY/Markings
1. Visual Runway
• Runway Designation
• Runway Centerline
2. Non-Precision Instrument Runway
• Threshold Marking
• Aiming Point
3. Precision Instrument Runway
• Touch Down Zone Marking
• Runway Edge Marking
RUNWAY CONFIGURATION
• Single Runway
• Crossed Runway
• Closed V Runway
• Open V Runway
2. Taxiways
• Function: Taxiways connect runways with other parts of the airport, such as
terminals and hangars. They allow aircraft to move safely between these areas.
3. Terminals
• Function: Terminals are the main buildings where passengers check in, go
through security, and board their flights. They also house baggage claim areas,
restaurants, shops, and other amenities.
4. Control Towers
• Function: Control towers are essential for managing air traffic within and around
the airport. Air traffic controllers in these towers coordinate takeoffs, landings,
and ground movements to ensure safety.
5. Aprons and Ramps
• Function: These areas are where aircraft are parked, loaded, unloaded,
refueled, and maintained. They are crucial for ground handling operations.
6. Hangars
• Function: Hangars are large buildings used for storing and maintaining aircraft.
They protect planes from the elements and provide space for repairs and
inspections.
7. Air Traffic Control Systems
• Function: These systems include radar, communication equipment, and
navigation aids that help manage air traffic safely and efficiently.
8. Security and Safety Facilities
• Function: These include security checkpoints, fire stations, and medical facilities
to ensure the safety and security of passengers and staff.
9. Support Services
• Function: These services include baggage handling, catering, and ground
transportation. They ensure that passengers and cargo are efficiently managed.
NAIA
Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), also known as Manila International Airport,
is the main international gateway to the Philippines. Here are some key details:
Overview
• Location: NAIA is situated between the cities of Pasay and Parañaque in Metro
Manila, approximately 7 kilometers south of Manila proper.
• History: The airport was originally known as Manila International Airport and was
renamed in honor of Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., who was assassinated
there in 1983.
Terminals
NAIA consists of four passenger terminals:
1. Terminal 1: Handles most international flights.
2. Terminal 2: Exclusively used by Philippine Airlines for both international
and domestic flights.
3. Terminal 3: Serves international flights not handled by Terminal 1 and
some domestic flights.
4. Terminal 4: Hosts flights from local and regional carriers2.
CHANGI AIRPORT
Singapore Changi Airport, commonly known as Changi Airport, is one of the world’s
leading airports, renowned for its efficiency, amenities, and passenger experience.
Here are some key details:
Overview
• Location: Changi Airport is located in the eastern part of Singapore,
approximately 24 kilometers from the city center.
• History: The airport opened on July 1, 1981, and has since grown to become a
major international hub.
Terminals
Changi Airport consists of four main terminals, each offering a range of services
and amenities:
1. Terminal 1: Known for its iconic Cactus Garden and rooftop swimming pool.
2. Terminal 2: Features a butterfly garden and a wide variety of dining options.
3. Terminal 3: Home to the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, the Rain Vortex,
located in the Jewel Changi Airport complex.
4. Terminal 4: The newest terminal, known for its high-tech features and
automated check-in and boarding processes.
STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS USED
1. Gridshell Roof
2. Glass Façade
3. Oculus and Rain Vortex
BBB AIRPORT
The “Build, Build, Build” program in the Philippines included several airport projects
aimed at improving the country’s aviation infrastructure. These projects aimed to boost
connectivity, support tourism, and enhance economic growth in various regions of the
Philippines.
In the latest updates, the estimated airport project is 212, 19 are completed, and 102
are ongoing.
Here are some of the notable airports that were part of this initiative:
1. Clark International Airport (New Terminal)
Type: Commercial/Primary
Prepared by:
Dimla, Randel
Guinto,Sophia
Tolentino, Kristel Erika