Chinese air passenger behavior and airport access methods: Identification of key factors

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to explore the accessibility of various vehicles to the airport and passenger’s travel behavior. The connection between the airport and the urban transportation system is vital for both air passengers and the airport. To answer the research question more accurately, the literature review method was conducted in this research. Based on some previous research about Shanghai Pudong Airport, the analysis of characteristics of various ground access modes was conducted with the consideration of several factors including travel time, travel cost and bulky luggage. The result indicates that passengers prefer to take private vehicles and taxis to the airport, while public transport still occupies a certain proportion. Finally, the current ground access structure and its forming reasons were summarized by analyzing some major influence caused by various factors. The result of this research might provide some modifications to the existing airport transportation systems in China and theoretical guidance for the construction of new airports.