This interactive seminar is part of a yearly series offered by CIFAL Atlanta around the world that explores the full range of opportunities and roadblocks surrounding the planning, development and growth of world class airports. It will also focus on adopting policies that can unlock the great potential that exists within many airports to fully develop and exploit commercial activities to attract investment, improve airport competitiveness and promote global trade.

In a globalized economy, airports have become critical engines for economic growth at national, regional and local levels. Enhancing the connectivity, quality of services and competitiveness of airports can create jobs and spur the economic growth of the surrounding region. Cooperation and coordination between central government, local government, airport management and the business community in the form of public private partnerships are key success factors for economic development initiatives that position airports as optimal city and country gateways, air cargo hubs, and business zones. 

Airports also play a crucial role in today's multimodal logistics and global supply chains. Air freight for example accounts for 40 percent of world trade volumes by value and is regarded as a leading indicator of the state of the world economy. Multinationals often cite the presence of a major airport as a key criterion when deciding where to locate new subsidiaries, build plants, or start operations. The time, effort and convenience of international travel for senior executives are also factors that should not be underestimated.

Airports can be leveraged in many areas to create jobs and new activities in support of economic development. As such airports should be viewed as an essential component of the urban planning process.