The Legislature finds and declares as follows:
(a) The proper operation of California’s publicly owned or operated airports is essential to the welfare of the state and its people.
(b) California’s publicly owned or operated airports establish a vital transportation link between the state and the economic systems of the nation and the world, and enable the state to enjoy and provide the benefits of an international tourist and commercial center.
(c) The economic validity and stability of California’s publicly owned or operated airports is, consequently, a matter of statewide importance.
(d) The policy of this state is to promote the development of commerce and tourism to the end of securing to the people of this state the benefits of these activities conducted in the state.
(e) Therefore, since the proper operation of the state’s publicly owned or operated airports is essential to the welfare of the state and its people, the Legislature recognizes and affirms such operation as a governmental function to be discharged in furtherance of the policy of securing the benefits of commerce and tourism for the state and its people.