Lennujaamad

Lennujaamad, or airports, are facilities designed for the arrival, departure, and servicing of aircraft. They enable passenger travel, air cargo, and general aviation, and are typically located near the urban areas they serve. A modern airport usually includes runways, taxiways, aprons, passenger terminals, an air traffic control tower, navigation and communications systems, and ground handling services. Airports operate under national and international safety standards to ensure efficient and safe operations.

Airports vary in size and function. Commercial airports handle scheduled passenger and freight services and often include international and domestic terminals. General aviation airports serve private, instructional, and light aircraft operations. Some airports act as reliever hubs to ease congestion at larger cities, while others specialize in cargo only. Ownership and funding differ by country, with a mix of public authorities and private operators.

Key operations include air traffic control, runway management, security screening, baggage handling, customs and immigration for international flights, and ground services such as fueling, catering, and aircraft maintenance. Navigation aids, instrument approaches, and weather information support safe landings and takeoffs.

Regulation and safety are guided by national authorities in coordination with international bodies. Environmental concerns, including noise and emissions, drive mitigation measures and sustainable airport design. The aviation industry is highly interconnected, with standards and practices harmonized through organizations like ICAO and other regional regulators.

Estonia example: In Estonia, the main international airport is Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport, serving as the country’s principal gateway. The network also includes smaller airports in Tartu and Pärnu, supporting domestic and seasonal routes and contributing to regional accessibility and economic activity.