What qualifies an aerodrome to be considered an airport?

An aerodrome is considered an airport primarily based on the criteria that it holds an airport certificate. This certificate, issued by aviation authorities, signifies that the facility meets specific regulations and standards necessary for safe operations, including aspects related to infrastructure, management, and safety procedures. The presence of an airport certificate indicates compliance with the legal requirements to operate as an airport, ensuring that it can accommodate commercial air traffic and support services.

In contrast, the presence of a control tower or specific runways and taxiways does not alone determine an aerodrome's status as an airport. A facility may have these features but might still function under different regulations that do not classify it as an airport. Additionally, geographical location, such as being within a city's metropolitan area, does not inherently qualify an aerodrome as an airport, as many airports exist outside urban centers. Thus, the key factor for classification is the holding of a valid airport certificate.