This is by design. Not a bug. Think of having to navigate the complex taxiways of a KLAX or EGLL, like maybe an impressionable beginner might be inclined to pick as a starter airport only to be whomped by a 20-min taxi to departure.
Local strips keep the mucking about times real short and sweet to get to the flying.
You will be able to pick a major airport later on in the game, but you probably didn’t make it far enough to know that. Don’t worry, it’s coming, keep flying.