Maximising non-aviation revenue for airports: Developing airport cities to optimise real estate and capitalise on land development opportunities

Abstract

Transportation infrastructure has shapped urban growth which has resulted in a network of arterial links between population centres and major transport infrastructure (such as airports). Many economies are increasingly geared towards speed, mobility and global access. Air services are now essential to an economy's wellbeing and as a result many businesses cluster around airports to take advatage of this hub of activity. Airports have become multimodal/functional businesses generating considerable commercial development both inside and outside of their boundaries; they are true ‘airport cities’.Given the nature and size of airport developments, it is important to understand that businesses will cluster at and around major airports due to accessibility, speed and mobility. Airports are a critical link in time-sensitive supply chain logistics both nationally and internationally. As increasingly more aviation-related businesses locate themselves near airports, air cargo and passenger numbers are boosted. If planning has been undertaken in an appropriate manner, an airport city development will markedly enhance both aeronautical development and non-aeronautical development, thus increasing airport revenues.