Substantive Theory In Airport Planning

16 Requirein-depth analysis, saving t h e and effort. The focus is retained to produce in-depthanalysis on a smaller number of higher lever issues Alexander 1991, p.56; Dempsey et al. 1997,p.473. Both of these theories are quite evident in airport development. Al1 the commercial airport terminal in the world can be categorized into only 4 terminal concepts. This demonstrates that while certain issues are dealt with in an exhaustive manner, many design features are only slightly modified from project to project.

2.3 Substantive Theory In Airport Planning

An extremely important aspect of terminal planning is the elaboration of the Substantive category of planning. Substantive planning is concerned with what do I have, how about and what we are planning for and whom we are planning for Alexander 1991, p.7. This type of planning bases itself on an in- depth analysis of the subject. This form of comprehensive analysis, into what and whom we are planning for, is essential in order to develop a terminal that serves the type of passengers that are using that airport. Distinguishing between transit passengers and originatingariving passengers is as important as knowing the volume of passengers. Different types of passengers utilize different areas and components within the terminal building, thus placing pressure on different links in the system. Designing a terminal complex that is incompatible with the type of passengers using the airport can lead to serious processing and flow problems within the terminal system. 17 As a result, it is of utmost importance to know whom you are designing the terminal building for. What are the characteristics of these users? Can they be properly accommodated within the system? Another range ont0 which substantive planning is necessary is the understanding and adjustments according to local population issues such as culture, civic pride, local customs etc. Generic development processes dont take into account such distinctions, however, the overall acceptance and evaluation of a project do rely heavily on a positive overall perception from the user population, travelers and locals alike. In a continuance of who we are planning for, aviation forecasting plays a major role in the quantitative side of airport development. Forecasting volume and demand for service in the cynical industry is extremely difficult even with modem technological aids. Over reliance on forecasts could lead to design shortcomings or misplaced funds. What may occur are expansive, overbuilt, undammed and inefficient terminals. Taking into account this and other major uncertain variables, the airport planning process as well as the terminal building design must remain flexible.

2.4 FlexibilityIn Airport Planning and Development