A modern airport in 2026 is divided into two primary zones: Landside and Airside, separated by a strict security boundary. Landside includes the public terminal area where passengers check in, drop baggage, and access ground transportation like trains or taxis. Airside begins after the security checkpoint and encompasses the departure gates, duty-free lounges, and the "ramp" or "apron" where aircraft are parked. Underneath this passenger layer is the "Baggage Handling System" (BHS), which uses sophisticated sorting technology to move luggage to the correct flight. Operationally, the airport structure is supported by the Control Tower (ATC), which manages the runways and taxiways, and the Maintenance and Cargo hangars. In 2026, airports have also integrated "Biometric Corridors," allowing for seamless identity verification without physical documents as passengers move from the terminal to the gate.