What function does a passenger terminal serve in an airport?

The primary function of a passenger terminal at an airport is to facilitate the process of boarding aircraft and retrieving baggage. It serves as a centralized location where passengers check in, go through security, and wait for their flights. Within the terminal, travelers have access to various services, such as ticketing, check-in counters, customs, baggage claim areas, and amenities like shops and restaurants. This infrastructure ensures a smooth transition for passengers from ground transport to air travel and vice versa, clearly emphasizing the centrality of boarding and baggage retrieval in its operational purpose.

The other options represent functions that are typically handled by different areas or specific organizations within the airport environment. For instance, air traffic control is a critical component of flight safety but is separate from the passenger experience. Similarly, fueling services are managed by ground services rather than the terminal itself, and weather updates are usually provided by meteorological services or airline operations rather than the terminal's primary function.