Airside Design
Airside design is a critical element of any airport and must be carefully planned to ensure
the safety and efficiency of air traffic. The layout of an airside must consider the movement of aircraft, vehicles, people, and the surrounding environment. Wind patterns, terrain, and existing infrastructure all play a role in the design of an airside.
Moreover, the design must meet the ever-changing needs of the aviation industry. As such, it is a complex and constantly evolving field. From the initial planning stages to the construction of new runways and terminals, airside design is essential to the smooth operation of any airport.
➔ Runways and Taxiways
The runway is the main strip of concrete or asphalt used for takeoffs and landings. Taxiways are the pathways that connect the runways to the parking areas and
gate areas of an airport.
➔ Holding Bays and Terminal Apron
Holding bays are areas where aircraft can wait before they are cleared to enter a runway. The terminal apron is where aircraft are parked at the gate areas.
➔ Relative Location of Terminal to Runways
An airport terminal’s location relative to its runways is important for efficient operations. If the terminal is too far from the runway, passengers may have to walk long distances to reach their gate. If it is too close, aircraft may have to taxi for a long time before reaching their gate.
➔ Current Issues Regarding Airside Design
There are several current issues regarding airside design. One issue is the increasing size of aircraft. It requires larger widths for both runways and taxiways.
Another issue is the increased traffic at airports, which necessitates more efficient use of space and greater capacity for holding bays and aprons.
