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Landside vs Airside — What's the Difference?
Last updated: 6 Jul 2026Reviewed by Ms. Rubab Nizami, Lead AVSEC Faculty
In short
Landside is the public part of an airport before the security check — kerbside, check-in and arrivals. Airside is everything beyond the check — gates, aprons and runways — where access is controlled and everyone is screened or holds an AEP.
Landside vs Airside — side by side
| Landside | Airside | |
|---|---|---|
| Where | Before security | After security |
| Access | Open to the public | Screened passengers and AEP-holders only |
| Examples | Check-in hall, arrivals | Departure gates, apron, runway |
Which should you use?
Cross the security check and you move from landside to airside — the controls tighten as you go.
Quick answers
Which is more secure, landside or airside?
Airside — it is beyond the security check, so access is tightly controlled.