They should definitely be viewed as a driver of economic development. In every country, airports are considered a driver of economic development, whether they are privately or publicly owned.
We have made very significant gains thanks to airports' contribution to the economic fabric. That's been proven, regardless of what ideology one subscribes to. There are figures and facts to back it up. When we build a highway—at least here—we don't charge people to use it. It's public infrastructure, but it contributes to economic development. People travel, goods are transported and the economy flows. We must also view airports in this light.