One of the major factors behind near gridlock at airline terminals is the scarcity of runways. Planes circle in the air awaiting clearance, while other flights idle on runways awaiting permission for takeoff. The delays generate frustration among passengers and airline personnel alike.
Experts say congestion can only be relieved by swift construction of additional runways.
But approvals require a host of reviews by numerous federal and state agencies and local bodies. With each agency involved having its own pace and priorities, timetables need to be developed which would limit how long officials can spend before making decisions. But rationalizing the runway approval process would be as good a place as any to start.