Southwest Airlines, the largest airline in the U.S. domestic market, in terms of passengers, has obviated a long-held truism with the recent addition of 737-800s to its fleet. (Beware: reading further will require summoning up your inner airline geek.)

As a still uncertain economy continues its stagnating effect, governments talk of stimulus packages and job-creation schemes. What you too rarely hear about, however, is a pledge for renewed investment in what is a top economic driver for any country—its airports.

Even the best-managed airlines have little control over fuel prices, which are also typically their largest cost. So it is not surprising that the rise in fuel prices over the last few months is having an impact, most clearly seen in the latest round of financial reports and estimates.

For airports, in terms of passenger traffic, the title-holder currently is Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, according to data published by Airports Council International. This has been true for the entire 2000-2010 period, the most recent data published on ACI's website.

A New Distribution Tool By Tony Tyler

Airlines get little credit when things go right, much blame when they go wrong

Join ATW at the Singapore Airshow 2012 to hear about new IFE, regional strategies, and to take a walk inside the Irkut MC-21 cabin mockup, and a stroll down the flightline.

Alaska Airlines The ATW Joseph S. Murphy Industry Service award is bestowed on those who have demonstrated exceptional service in the airline industry while also bringing credit to the industry as a whole through outstanding public service. Alaska Airlines has continued to lead a number of technological developments that help advance the entire industry while also making outstanding commitments to worthy causes such as the Make-a-Wish Foundation, Angel Flight West and the Special Olympics.