An airport authority is an independent entity charged with the operation and oversight of an airport or group of airports. These authorities are often governed by a group of airport commissioners, who are appointed to lead the authority by a government official.

Airport management is typically a collaborative effort between a governing authority and various private entities. Most major airports are owned by local, regional, or national governments and managed by an Airport Authority or a department of the city (e.g., the Port Authority of NY & NJ). These authorities oversee the "landside" (terminals and parking) and "airside" (runways and gates) operations. In some cases, airports are privatized or managed under a long-term lease by global firms like Vinci Airports or Fraport. On a daily operational level, the Airport Manager or CEO coordinates with the FAA (or local civil aviation body) for safety, while individual airlines manage their own gate operations and lounge spaces. Additionally, specialized contractors often handle security (like the TSA in the US), ground handling, and retail concessions. This "landlord" model ensures the airport remains a safe, regulated hub for the various private businesses that operate within its boundaries.