The Rise of Airports as the New City Center
Mark Bickford
President, Corporate Services Solutions, Sodexo
On Dec. 17, 1903, the Wright brothers successfully flew the first powered, manned airplane. The flight lasted only 12 seconds and covered just 121 feet. By the 1950’s commercial aviation took off. The increasing availability of affordable air travel considerably expanded aviation’s role in sustaining society. What was once a luxury commodity is now essential to tourism, trade and commerce. In fact, according to the International Air Transportation Association more than 8 million people travel by air every day.
The first airport opened in Bremen, Germany, in 1913. A century later, airports have evolved into giant business magnets—regional accelerators that drive business outward for many miles. These airport cities, referred to as aerotropolis by Airport World Magazine, are changing the way that travelers connect to get work done. Designed with comfort in mind, they help travelers enjoy a better experience and allow employees to work more conveniently and efficiently.
