Evaluating the Siphon Effect on Airport Cluster Resilience Using Accessibility and a Benchmark System for Sustainable Development

Xinglong Wang, Weiqi Lin, Hao Yin and Fang Sun ()
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Xinglong Wang: Key Laboratory of Internet of Aircraft, Civil Aviation University of China, Tianjin 300300, China
Weiqi Lin: Key Laboratory of Internet of Aircraft, Civil Aviation University of China, Tianjin 300300, China
Hao Yin: CAAC Central & Southern Airport Design & Research Institute (Guangzhou) Co., Ltd., Guangzhou 510405, China
Fang Sun: College of Science, Civil Aviation University of China, Tianjin 300300, China

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 15, 1-27

Abstract: The siphon effect between airports has amplified the polarization in passenger throughput, undermining the balanced development and sustainability of airport clusters. The airport siphon effect occurs when one airport attracts a disproportionate share of passengers, concentrating traffic at the expense of others, which affects the overall resilience of the entire airport cluster. To address this issue, this study proposes a siphon index, expands the range of ground transportation options for passengers, and establishes a zero-siphon model to assess the impact of siphoning on the resiliency of airport clusters. Using this framework, four major airport clusters in China were selected as research subjects, with regional aviation accessibility serving as a measure of resilience. The results showed that among the four airport clusters, the siphon effect is most pronounced in the Guangzhou region. To explore the implications of this effect further, three airport disruption scenarios were simulated to assess the resilience of the Pearl River Delta airport cluster. The results indicated that the intensity and timing of disruptive events significantly affect airport cluster resilience, with hub airports being particularly sensitive. This study analyzes the risks associated with excessive route concentration, providing policymakers with critical insights to enhance the sustainability, equity, and resilience of airport clusters. The proposed strategies facilitate coordinated infrastructure development, optimized air–ground intermodal connectivity, and risk mitigation. These measures contribute to building more sustainable and adaptive aviation networks in rapidly urbanizing regions.

Keywords: airport siphon effect; passenger throughput polarization; airport cluster resilience; sustainable development (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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