Which stage of airport development involves assessing physical and legal constraints?

The stage of airport development that involves assessing physical and legal constraints is known as the assessing stage. During this phase, planners and developers evaluate various factors that could impact the design and operation of the airport. This includes examining topographical features, zoning laws, environmental regulations, and land use policies. Understanding these constraints is crucial because they influence what can be built, how it can be configured, and any necessary compliance with regulatory requirements.

Evaluating physical constraints ensures that the airport's infrastructure is suitable for the geographic area, while reviewing legal constraints is essential for ensuring that all development aligns with local, state, and federal laws. This comprehensive assessment is a fundamental step before moving into other stages, such as market analysis or construction, where strategic decisions are made based on the findings from the assessing stage.