Ground transportation problems at London and Paris airports are discussed. The high growth rate of air passenger traffic is expected to continue unchanged. The Boeing 747 carrying 490 passengers will add to the necessity for more ground transportation when in operation. The ground transport choice is confined to the following alternatives: (1) the existing road system can be improved and new roads provided where necessary to improve this means of access to the airport, or, (2) an exclusive public transport link can be constructed between the city center and the airport. Economic considerations and cost/benefit studies can be deciding factors in the final decision. The characteristics of air passenger traffic are discussed from the viewpoint of total journey time. As aircraft speeds increase, the proportion of the air passenger's time spent on the ground will increase. This will focus attention on the need to improve ground facilities. It is concluded that future emphasis must be on the integration of an airport into the overall transportation system for a city.
Abstract