Airports began as a simple connection between the ground and the sky. Travelers were frequently dropped off because parking was limited. Paid parking lots with security and lighting were introduced in Cleveland in the 1950s. As air travel became more common and airports grew into bustling hubs, such parking lots became an essential component of airport design. As the number of travellers increased, so did the variety of options.

Passenger fees were the primary source of revenue for airports in the early days. Economic trends and security concerns have posed challenges to this business model over the last two decades.

As a result, airports have evolved into more than just a transfer point. To diversify their income streams, many airports now offer shops, eateries, and services.

Airport parking is classified into six types:

Drop-off and pick-up zones provide vehicles with curbside access to the airport's main entrance for less than 15 minutes.

Cell phone waiting lots are outlying lots that provide free or low-cost parking for a driver who's really waiting to pick up an arriving passenger.

Drivers who will be at the airport for much less than four hours typically use short-term parking.

Long-term parking on-site allows travellers to leave their cars for the duration of their trip.

Off-site long-term parking provides travellers with discounted parking space for the duration of their trip. This parking lot is not associated with the airport.

One or even more car rental companies are present on-site car rental lots.