Definition

In relation to the area of an airport terminal that is beyond security checks, where passengers can access boarding gates and aircraft.

Example

Passengers must go airside to board their flights.

Conversation

Are you ready to go airside for our flight?

Yeah, I can't wait to explore the shops there!

I heard there are some great restaurants airside too.

Exactly! It'll be fun to grab a bite before we board.

Definition

A section of an airport where passengers can access planes, usually after going through security checks and customs. This area is specifically for boarding and disembarking from aircraft.

Example

Passengers must have their boarding passes ready to access the airside of the terminal.

Conversation

Did you see how busy it was airside today?

I know! It felt like everyone was traveling at once.

I just wanted to grab a coffee before my flight, but the lines were crazy airside.

Root Explanation

Airside is formed from "air" (from Old English "aer", meaning the invisible gaseous substance surrounding the Earth) and "side" (from Old English "side", meaning a position or surface). The term "airside" refers to the area of an airport that is beyond security and accessible only to authorized personnel and passengers boarding flights, essentially the side of the airport that is adjacent to the air.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'air' as the space above and 'side' as a position — 'airside' is the area next to the air, where planes take off and land.

Visually Confused Words