A methodology for the comparative analysis of airport passenger terminal configuration

The right choice between possible types of passenger terminal buildings is the key to a successful airport design project. Historically, in the earlier days of aviation the designer's concern was directed to aircraft and to the adequacy of the ground facilities which each airport provided. As the aviation grew, airport passenger buildings grew more complex and more expensive, to the point of being viewed as a key to the airport’s economic performance. In this context, the process of selecting a terminal concept became fundamental for planning and designing airport terminal buildings. However, almost no methodology is available at the initial planning level for the selection of terminal concepts, and very little research has been done in this area. [Continues.]