What is the gate at an airport used for?

The gate at an airport is specifically designated as the area where passengers board and disembark from an aircraft. It serves as a connection point between the terminal and the aircraft, allowing for passenger loading and unloading. Gates are typically equipped with seating areas where passengers wait before flying, and they often have signage indicating the flight number, destination, and boarding times.

While checked baggage processing, security screening, and aircraft maintenance are crucial components of airport operations, they occur in different areas of the airport. The check-in area is separate from the gate, as is the location for processing checked baggage, typically found at service counters or designated baggage claim areas. Security screening happens before passengers reach the gate, usually at security checkpoints within the terminal. Aircraft maintenance takes place in hangars or maintenance areas, away from the passenger gates. Therefore, the gate's primary function is to facilitate the boarding process for passengers, making it distinct in its purpose within the airport infrastructure.