DETERMINING THE INFRASTRUCTURAL NEEDS FOR RURAL MOBILITY: FUNCTIONS AND BENEFITS OF RURAL AIRPORTS IN WASHINGTON STATE

The benefits of the existing system of airports in Washington State are well known. In addition to providing mobility to Washington citizens, visitors, and other traveling public, the aviation system also supports international businesses of the state and nation. The overall approach of this study was to investigate and assess the socioeconomic role and function of the state's rural airports locally, regionally, and systemwide, emphasizing the benefits and associated infrastructure needs of the system. The context of examining these benefits includes private and public beneficiaries such as passengers, freight, systems benefits, tax revenues, etc.