In the context of aviation and aerospace, an "Airport Database" refers to a comprehensive collection of information about airports, including their geographical locations, operational characteristics, and other relevant data. This database is used by various stakeholders, such as airlines, air traffic control, and aviation authorities, to support flight planning, navigation, and safety.

An Airport Database typically contains detailed information about each airport, including:

1. Airport identification: ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) and IATA (International Air Transport Association) codes, as well as the airport's name and location.
2. Geographical coordinates: Latitude, longitude, and elevation of the airport.
3. Runway information: Number and orientation of runways, runway lengths, widths, and surface types.
4. Instrument landing systems: Information about instrument landing systems (ILS), such as localizer and glideslope frequencies.
5. Navigational aids: Details about navigational aids, like VOR (VHF Omnidirectional Range) and NDB (Non-Directional Beacon) stations.
6. Communication frequencies: Radio communication frequencies for air traffic control, ground control, and other services.
7. Airfield obstacles: Information about obstacles, such as buildings, trees, and other vertical structures, that could pose a hazard to aircraft operations.
8. Weather information: Climate and weather patterns, including prevailing winds, temperature ranges, and precipitation data.
9. Aeronautical charts: Digital or paper charts that provide visual representations of the airport's layout, runways, and surrounding terrain.
10. Restrictions and notices: Information about airspace restrictions, NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen), and other important notices that may affect flight operations.

The Airport Database is used for various purposes, including:

1. Flight planning: To determine the most efficient and safe flight routes, altitudes, and speeds.
2. Navigation: To provide pilots with accurate and up-to-date information about the airport's layout and surroundings.
3. Air traffic control: To manage air traffic flow, issue clearances, and provide guidance to pilots.
4. Aviation safety: To identify potential hazards and mitigate risks associated with airport operations.
5. Aviation planning: To support airport development, infrastructure planning, and capacity analysis.

Overall, the Airport Database plays a vital role in ensuring the safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of air transportation, and its accuracy and completeness are essential for the smooth operation of the global air transportation system.