Airport, Inc.
In short: Airport, Inc. is a simulation game released in 1999 by JoWooD Productions, available on PC. Our score: 7.5/10 (worth buying, especially on sale).
Experience the thrill of managing your own airport, from building terminals and runways to managing air traffic and passenger flow. It's a deep simulation of the complex world of aviation management.
Airport, Inc. plunges players into the demanding yet rewarding world of airport management. Released in 1999 by JoWooD Productions, this PC simulation title offers a comprehensive look at what it takes to run a bustling international airport. From the initial groundbreaking to the daily hustle of incoming and outgoing flights, every aspect is under your meticulous control. The game challenges you to design and construct an efficient airport layout, balancing the needs of various aircraft types with passenger comfort and security. You'll lay down runways, build terminals, control towers, and various ancillary services crucial for smooth operations. Beyond construction, Airport, Inc. truly shines in its operational depth. Players are tasked with managing air traffic control, ensuring planes land and take off safely and on schedule. This involves intricate scheduling, runway assignment, and navigating unexpected events like bad weather or emergency landings. Economic management is equally vital; you'll need to negotiate contracts with airlines, manage budgets, set ticket prices, and invest in upgrades to keep your airport competitive and profitable. Public relations also play a role, as you strive to maintain passenger satisfaction and a stellar airport reputation. The game's complexity is its strength, offering a rewarding experience for those who enjoy intricate management simulations. Every decision, from the placement of a baggage carousel to the expansion of a new terminal…
Game details
- Developer: JoWooD Productions
- Publisher: Phenomedia AG
- Release year: 1999
- Platforms: PC
- Category: simulation
Our review
Airport, Inc. delivers a surprisingly deep and engaging simulation experience for its time. While the graphics are undeniably dated, the core gameplay loop of building, managing, and expanding an airport remains highly addictive and rewarding. The economic and logistical challenges are well-balanced, requiring careful planning and strategic thinking. It's a game that truly makes you feel like the CEO of a bustling aviation hub, with every decision impacting your success. The learning curve can be steep, but perseverance is well-rewarded. A solid choice for fans of classic simulation titles.
Pros
- Deep and complex simulation mechanics
- Satisfying progression system
- High replayability
- Realistic economic model
Cons
- Outdated graphics
- Steep learning curve
- Occasional interface quirks
FAQ
- Is Airport, Inc. difficult for new players?
- Airport, Inc. has a somewhat steep learning curve due to its depth and the lack of hand-holding tutorials by modern standards. However, with patience and by starting small, new players can certainly grasp its mechanics and enjoy the rewarding simulation.
- Are there any modern alternatives to Airport, Inc.?
- While Airport, Inc. is a classic, modern games like 'Airport CEO' and 'SimAirport' offer similar airport management simulation experiences with updated graphics and mechanics. However, many still appreciate the unique charm and depth of the original.
- Can I customize the airport in Airport, Inc.?
- Yes, customization is a core aspect of Airport, Inc. You have full control over the layout and construction of your airport, including runways, terminals, gates, and various service buildings. This allows for extensive personalization and strategic planning.
- What kind of challenges can I expect?
- You'll face challenges such as managing air traffic, dealing with unexpected events (e.g., bad weather, technical issues), balancing a budget, negotiating airline contracts, ensuring passenger satisfaction, and competing with other hypothetical airports.
More about this game
Similar games
Last updated: 03/04/2026