Yes, airports are a fundamental and inseparable component of aviation, specifically falling under the category of Aviation Infrastructure. In the broadest sense, aviation is the design, development, production, operation, and use of aircraft; however, aircraft cannot operate without the "ground segment." The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and international bodies like ICAO define an airport as any area of land or water used for the landing and takeoff of aircraft, including all "appurtenant" buildings and facilities. In 2026, the definition of aviation has expanded to include Vertiports (for electric air taxis) and specialized drone hubs, all of which are managed under the umbrella of aviation authorities. Airports provide the essential interface between ground transport and air transport, managing everything from Air Traffic Control (ATC) and runway safety to security and fueling. Without the regulated environment of an airport, the safety and scalability of modern commercial and general aviation would be impossible.