Golden Gate Air Terminal

From FEInfobase

Latest revision as of 12:50, 2 April 2006

Introduction

Golden Gate Air Terminal (GAT) is located on the South Marin Coast immediately North of San Francisco. It is one of the largest air terminals on Earth and serves as a landing base for nearly every civilian vessel entering San Francisco air space. The Terminal is equipped to cope with hundreds of vessels every day and also has a large transporter suite which is currently inactive due to Starfleet's increased security over the planet.

Many of GAT's passengers embark upon the craft that will take them to their destination on the planet however those travelling on larger liners are transported into orbit by GAT-owned runabouts. GAT does not deal with Starfleet vessels for the most part - the fleet has two of its own shuttle suites situated on either shore as well as a number of solitary landing bays around the city.

GAT's positioning means that a heavy Starfleet presence is notable at all times of the day and the added security means that passage through the Terminal can often take a number of hours. This has caused a flurry of complaints filed against Starfleet from disgruntled passengers.

GAT Architecture

The Terminal is most often distinguished by its large glass roof which not only allows for passengers to see craft disembarking but also provides a welcoming sight when caught in the light of the Western sun. The interior of the Terminal is open plan with a variety of shops to the North of the complex situated near the inactive transporter suite. The vast majority of landing bays are located to the South of the Terminal though a number have been built around the outer edges of the East and Western sides to cope with increased traffic. The larger bays capable of dealing with the bigger transport vessels are all located along the Southern side.

GAT Administration

GAT has a senior board of directors made up of twelve partners, some of whom are ex-Starfleet. The Managing Director has a majority holding of just over nine percent though all mojor decisions are subject to a vote in which a majority must be gained. Only if there is a draw of results does the Managing Director have final say. The board of directors is often in touch with Starfleet Command regarding matters that affect public transport and the functioning of GAT. This level of communication is unmatched by other such facilities around the globe and aids with GAT's continued business.

Political State of Affairs

GAT is responsible for a large number of jobs in the San Francisco area and conducts business with nearly every registered transport company in the system. As a result of this, its contacts are numerous and the board of directors use this when bartering with Starfleet for more favourable operating conditions. Starfleet Intelligence has used the Terminal in the past to begin undercover observation operations.

Security of the Terminal

Starfleet maintains a heavy security presence inside the Terminal and security sensors sweep every craft that is given permission to dock but as well as this, a large Starfleet presence above the Earth monitors the vessels in orbit. This level of security is hampered by lack of resources however it still remains extremely vigilent.