Assessing Urban Aerial Trails’ Capacity in Xiamen, China: A Quantitative Approach to Physical and Psychological Crowding Perceptions

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This study assessed the carrying capacity of an urban aerial trails, considering physical and psychosocial dimensions of crowding. To evaluate physical crowding, the research utilized a quantitative approach to measure tourist density. Psychosocial crowding was assessed using a visual assessment technique. Data collection involved presenting participants with simulated imagery, facilitating the assessment of social and psychological perceptions of crowding on the mountain and sea trails in Xiamen, China. The study found that the discrepancy between physical and psychological crowding primarily arises from the uneven spatial distribution of tourists along the trails. The findings confirm that the proximity of individuals on the trails significantly influences perceived congestion, thereby highlighting the unique nature of congestion analysis and assessment in the context of aerial trails. The research proposes strategies to address the challenges associated with both physical and psychosocial crowding phenomena.