How is the total economic impact of an airport measured?

The total economic impact of an airport is accurately measured using the Regional Input/Output Modeling System (RIMS II). This model quantifies the economic effects of various sectors, including transportation services, by analyzing how changes in one part of the economy affect different sectors through inter-industry relationships. RIMS II takes into account direct, indirect, and induced impacts of airport operations, capturing variables such as employment, business revenue, and personal income generated by the airport's activities.

The method is grounded in a comprehensive framework that allows stakeholders to assess how an airport contributes to regional economies, making it essential for planning and development purposes. By leveraging extensive economic data, RIMS II provides a robust estimation of the airport's broader economic contributions, thus providing valuable insights for policymakers and community leaders.