De Neufville, R. (1995) Management of multi-airport systems: A development strategy, Journal of Air Transport Management 2 (1995) 99–110.

This paper proposes a dynamic strategy for developing the multi-airport systems for needed for large metropolitan regions. It is based upon two fundamental factors:

1. the pattern of concentration of airline traffic at specific airports, impelled by the dynamics of the competition amongst airlines and airports, that sets limits on second airports;
2. the uncertainty of future traffic in this competitive environment, that implies financial risks for capital intensive airport projects.

Development plans should thus be strategic, making investments that insure the future; incremental, phasing modest investments according to proven opportunities; and flexible, providing the insurance to adjust easily to future situations.