Airports are now increasingly automated and, in turn, travellers are feeling more relaxed and more inclined to splash some cash whilst waiting for their flight.
That’s according to Priority Pass’ Tomorrows Journey Report, which surveyed more than 12,000 travellers globally to uncover how digital innovation is influencing their airport experience. A key finding was that airport advancements regarding efficiency are being welcomed, with travellers listing the top technologies materially improving their airport experience as those which fast track security (73%), digital boarding passes within airline apps (73%) and automated baggage drops and advanced security scanners (68%). In fact, 59% of travellers believe airports are adopting AI and technology at the right pace to meet their expectations, rising to 69% in Asia-Pacific. As processing speeds up, travellers are left with more time to spend up. Some 60% of travellers say automation has led them to spend more at the airport, with Gen Z and Millennials leading that change at 71% and 67%, respectively. Some 26% say this is because automation frees them to browse, dine or explore, while another 25% of those polled say they feel more relaxed and therefore more inclined to treat themselves.
. . . Lounges
This trend also means lounges are more in demand, with 37% of travellers saying they would visit a lounge if they had extra time at the airport, rising to 46% among APAC travellers. These passengers want the technology upgrades seen at airports to be available in lounges, as the report highlights that younger generations and high-income travellers want more from their lounge experience. The top features travellers would like to see in future lounges are smarter, tech-enabled environments with personalised food, entertainment and workspaces. They are also seeking a more seamless experience booking through apps, and a greater variety of local, independent food options.
See the full report HERE.
