What is the primary aim of forecasting in the master planning process?

• A. To estimate future demand to guide facility planning
• B. To assign runway numbers
• C. To determine current staff levels
• D. To set noise abatement procedures

Answer: (A)

Forecasting in the master planning process aims to predict future demand for air travel and cargo so facility planning can be sized and sequenced to meet that demand. By projecting passenger volumes, aircraft movements, and peak periods over the planning horizon, planners determine how much terminal capacity, gates, runway and airfield capacity, and supporting infrastructure will be needed. This helps ensure the plan can accommodate growth without overbuilding and supports financial and environmental feasibility. It’s not about assigning runway numbers, current staffing levels, or setting noise abatement procedures, which are operational decisions or policy measures rather than long‑range capacity planning driven by demand forecasts.