At old airports, planes wasted a lot of fuel, and pumped out loads of exhaust, as they taxied from gate to runway. At the StarrPort, the plane takes off from a runway adjacent to the gate, rolling downhill off the giant roof. At just a 1 percent decline, the runway gives a jumbo 747 enough of a boost to save 300 gallons of fuel during takeoff. (StarrPort runways are about half as long as flat ones.) On your return, the plane lands uphill and uses gravity to help it roll to a stop–without the deafening reverse thrusts that used to burn up to 500 gallons at each landing. New regenerative braking systems store the power created by the spinning wheels, adding to the energy savings. Unlike old airports, the StarrPort is so quiet and efficient, a lively city neighborhood has sprung up on its edges. And you like living next door.
