**The Airport: A City in the Sky and Economic Powerhouse**
When you think of an airport, you might imagine planes taking off and landing, people rushing to catch flights, or long security lines. But there’s much more to airports than meets the eye. At a recent news segment, a manager of a major airport in Atlanta compared it to a massive shopping mall with its own runways! This comparison showcases just how complex and vital airports are to our everyday lives. They are not just hubs for transportation; they are bustling cities full of activity and economic impact.
In this unique role, the airport manager described himself as the caretaker of this giant mall, overseeing everything from airlines to restaurants and even rental cars. With facilities that operate like small towns, the airport requires constant attention to ensure safety and efficiency. Just like a good mall manager, this individual must keep everything running smoothly to make sure that passengers and tenants are satisfied. After all, happy travelers mean more business and a better airport experience for everyone.
One of the biggest surprises about airports is their role as economic engines. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, for example, is not only one of the busiest airports in the world but also one of the largest economic drivers in the Southeast United States. It kicks up an astonishing $66.7 billion in economic activity! That’s a whole lot of dough! To put it in perspective, the airport has grown from its humble beginnings—once a racetrack that employed just a handful of people—to a thriving workplace for approximately 63,000 individuals. And if you factor in all the jobs created as a result of airport activity, that number skyrockets to around 383,000!
Can you imagine that? From a simple racetrack to a city-sized facility where hundreds of thousands of people earn a living! This transformation is a testament not only to the airport’s growth but also to its importance in the region’s economy. Celebrating its 100th anniversary, the airport reflects a century of progress and adaptation to the changing needs of travelers and the economy.
So, when the curious fifth graders ask what the airport manager does, they are really asking about a world that few truly understand. It’s a blend of operations, safety, and a hefty dose of economic impact that keeps the wheels of travel—and the economy—turning. Next time you find yourself at an airport, take a moment to appreciate the breadth of activities and livelihoods that revolve around this fascinating hub. It’s more than just a place for boarding a plane; it’s a thriving city that plays a significant role in boosting the economy and connecting people everywhere!
