Aviation System Changes Since September 2001 and Implications for Airport Development Plans

摘要

The drop in traffic and other changes in the aviation system since September 11, 2001 have had a profound effect on airport finances and plans to prepare for the future growth in traffic that had been expected prior to those events. Many airports are now facing difficult decisions over when planned increases in capacity may now be required and whether the changes in the aviation industry will require those plans to be reconsidered to address possible changes in future traffic composition or new security requirements. The paper presents the initial results of a monitoring activity to better understand the impact on California's aviation system of these events, and to track the recovery of traffic levels in the system. The paper addresses three aspects of aviation activity: airport passenger and cargo traffic, aircraft operations, and changes in the pattern of air service; and relates the impact on the California aviation system to larger trends at the national level. Based on these findings, the paper examines the extent to which traffic levels are recovering to their previously projected levels and discusses the implications for aviation system finances and airport development plans.