Air transport: a complex perspective for US Disney and Universal theme parks

• The symbiotic business relationship between airports and theme parks is a vital question for the future of theme parks. • The pandemic has changed the way in which organizations operate, and it will likely create new demand of leisure and entertainment in tourism sector. • The proximity of airports to theme parks is added value to visitors. • The growth in the number of international and domestic tourists by airplane has positive effects in the numbers of visitors at parks, and tourist destinations. The objective of this research was to analyse the impact of airports in Disney and Universal Studios theme parks in California and Florida states from 2008 to 2022. We adopted a methodology based on four data steps (airport's location and category, number of visitors at theme parks, and relevant information from public and private organisations), which helped us to illustrate the interaction between airports, urban cities, theme parks, and tourists, emphasising the relevance of air transport for cities and their tourist attractions. Moreover, this study shows how airports have a positive impact on the number of passengers’ arrivals at destinations and theme parks provided by airlines’ air connectivity and accessibility. In addition, the rise in the number of international and domestic tourists by air can help improve the numbers of visitors at parks and tourists at destinations in tourism accommodations like Disney and Universal Studios resorts and hotels around the parks. In the immediate future, joint strategic alliances by parks, airports, and destination marketing organisations (DMOs) must lay out attractive and economic tourist packages to attract more visitors, passengers, and tourists. The COVID-19 pandemic has been a disruptive factor with a direct negative impact on aviation, tourism, and leisure sectors that has changed the future of theme parks and their approach to handling business and marketing activities.