What characterizes a transporter or hard-stand terminal?

A transporter or hard-stand terminal is characterized by the specific arrangement of how passengers access their aircraft. In this scenario, aircraft are parked on the airfield, and passengers are transported to their plane via shuttles. This setup is often utilized in terminals where space limitations or operational efficiency dictate that not all aircraft can be parked directly adjacent to the passenger terminal. The use of shuttles allows for the efficient movement of passengers to and from planes that may be positioned further away, thereby supporting a continuous flow of air traffic and enhancing overall airport operations.

Other options describe different boarding processes that don't align with the function of a transporter terminal. For example, checking in at the main terminal and walking directly to the planes, or boarding exclusively for general aviation use both suggest a direct connection that is not typical in a transporter or hard-stand scenario. The direct boarding from the terminal to aircraft without additional transport also indicates a setup where planes are parked in immediate proximity to the terminal, which is different from how a transporter terminal operates.