What is the primary purpose of an airport certificate?

The primary purpose of an airport certificate is to ensure compliance with safety regulations. This certification is essential for maintaining operational standards that promote safety in aviation. The regulations covered by this certification include safety management systems, aircraft operations, maintenance practices, and overall airfield safety. Having these regulations in place helps to prevent accidents and incidents, thereby safeguarding the public and promoting a safe environment for all airport users.

Other functions of an airport, such as offering facilities for flight training or managing cargo operations, are important but do not encompass the core purpose of the airport certificate. Limiting take-off and landing times is a matter of operational management rather than a goal of the certification itself. The focus of certification is on adherence to safety protocols and regulatory compliance rather than on the specific types of operations or services the airport may provide.