A Glimpse At The World's Airports: A Photo Essay

Airports are increasingly becoming spaces for art exhibitions, with some airports choosing to exhibit new works of art, and others hosting pieces from the collections of internationally renowned museums. For example, Doha's Hamad International Airport has hosted gigantic sculptures by big names in contemporary art like KAWS and Urs Fischer. Istanbul Airport exhibits new works of art, including about 20 portraits that Turkish artist Deniz Sağdıç has made from materials from the airport's waste management centre, including old uniforms, cables and plastic bottles.

Airport runways

An airport is an aerodrome with extended facilities, mostly for commercial air transport. They usually consist of a landing area, which comprises an aerially accessible open space including at least one operationally active surface such as a runway for a plane to take off and to land or a helipad. Airports also often include adjacent utility buildings such as control towers, hangars and terminals, to maintain and monitor aircraft.

The runways are the operationally active surfaces that allow planes to take off and land. They are usually long, flat stretches of concrete or asphalt, marked with lines and lights to guide aircraft during takeoff and landing. The number and configuration of runways can vary depending on the size and type of airport. Some airports may have multiple parallel runways to accommodate a high volume of air traffic, while others may have a single runway with a taxiway leading to and from the terminal.

At small airports, the runway may be shorter and narrower, accommodating smaller aircraft. Larger airports, on the other hand, often have longer and wider runways to handle larger commercial jets. The length and width of runways can vary, but they are typically designed to accommodate the largest aircraft that will be using them.

Runways are typically marked with a series of lines and symbols that guide pilots during takeoff and landing. These markings include centrelines, touchdown zone markers, and runway threshold markings. Lights are also used to enhance visibility, especially during low-visibility conditions or night operations.

In addition to the main runways, some airports may have taxiways or taxi lanes that connect the runways to the terminal or other facilities. These taxiways allow aircraft to move between different parts of the airport without having to use the main runways, improving efficiency and safety.

Airport terminals

The terminal is where passengers purchase tickets and/or check in for their flights, check their luggage, go through security, and wait until it is time to board their plane from an assigned gate.

The predecessors of the modern terminal were the structures erected for the air shows of the Edwardian era, such as the Reims Air Meet in 1909. These buildings were usually L-shaped, with one wing dedicated to the planes and flight personnel, and the other intended for the spectators, with a grandstand and restaurants.

The newest airport terminals feature striking roofs and are impressive architectural achievements.

Airport aprons

An airport consists of a landing area, which includes a runway or helipad, and often includes adjacent utility buildings such as control towers, hangars and terminals, to maintain and monitor aircraft. Larger airports may have additional features such as airport aprons, taxiway bridges, air traffic control centres, passenger facilities, and emergency services.

The size and layout of an airport apron can vary depending on the size and type of aircraft it serves. For example, a large international airport may have multiple aprons to accommodate different types of aircraft, such as wide-body jets and cargo planes. In contrast, a smaller regional airport may have a single apron serving a variety of aircraft types.

The surface of an airport apron is typically made of concrete or asphalt, providing a durable and smooth surface for aircraft movement. Markings and signage are used to designate specific areas within the apron, such as parking bays, taxi lanes, and holding positions. Ground support equipment, such as baggage carts, fuel trucks, and catering vehicles, are also commonly found on the apron, assisting in the efficient turnaround of aircraft between flights.

Airport lounges

An airport consists of a landing area, which includes a runway or helipad, and adjacent utility buildings such as control towers, hangars and terminals. Larger airports may also have airport aprons, taxiway bridges, air traffic control centres, and emergency services.

Passenger facilities are also a key feature of larger airports, and these include restaurants and lounges. Airport lounges are exclusive, comfortable spaces where passengers can relax and unwind before their flight. They offer a range of amenities, such as comfortable seating, complimentary food and drinks, and entertainment options like television and reading material. Some lounges may also provide additional services such as spa treatments, shower facilities, and quiet nap rooms.

The design of airport lounges can vary, but they are typically spacious and well-appointed, with comfortable seating areas and ample natural light. Many lounges feature floor-to-ceiling windows, offering passengers stunning views of the airport runways and surrounding areas. To enhance the relaxing atmosphere, lounges may incorporate design elements such as water features, greenery, and soft lighting.

Access to airport lounges is usually restricted to premium passengers, such as those travelling in business or first class, or members of exclusive airport lounge programmes. However, some lounges may also offer day passes or allow access to passengers for a fee. These lounges provide a tranquil refuge from the hustle and bustle of the busy airport, offering passengers a place to relax, refresh, and enjoy a range of amenities and services before their journey.

Airport fashion

An airport is an aerodrome with extended facilities, mostly for commercial air transport. They usually consist of a landing area, which comprises an aerially accessible open space including at least one operationally active surface such as a runway for a plane to take off and to land or a helipad, and often includes adjacent utility buildings such as control towers, hangars and terminals, to maintain and monitor aircraft.

The airport look is a trend that has taken over social media, with celebrities leading the way. An airport look simply means the look in which you travel. It's about being comfortable while travelling but also being stylish. Celebrities have created looks for beaches, weddings, and gyms, so why not airports?

There is a deep and philosophical meaning to the airport look: be comfortable while travelling, but don't forget to be stylish as well. Once upon a time, people used to dress as comfortably as possible at airports so that they could enjoy a comfortable nap on the flight. However, now there is pressure to look stylish even when travelling.

So, what should you wear for your airport look? Something comfortable, of course! Whether it's your pyjamas, leggings, or a sweatshirt, make sure you feel good while travelling. Being comfortable and travelling is better than being stylish and uncomfortable.

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