Checking in
A survey was conducted for over 10,000 travellers and found that the most wanted airport facility is a cinema. Many are scared that their holiday can interrupt their cinema going habit and 49% of people wanted a cinema if they could wish for any facility in an airport, according to SkyScanner.
Another priority in their dream airport would be a sleeping pod, so they could make the time go faster when waiting for flights and get some rest before and after their holiday.
With E books in full flow, it would appear that books still overtake this in popularity, with 32% wanting a library, making this third in line of importance. Many wanted to be able to rent a book before going and then return it when they were on thy way back home.
31% wanted a green area outside, which could offer a distinct change in scenery for those who have been overexposed to airport surroundings on connecting flights or delays.
Fifth in line is a facility for salon and spa treatments so people going on holiday can have a luxury manicure, hair cut or massage to prepare for their stay.
Surprisingly, 15% wanted a gym, so that they had a chance to get in their last set of work outs before baring their body on the beach and 5% who wished for karaoke.
Top 10 most wanted features:
1. Cinema – 49%
2. Sleep pod – 36%
3. Library – 32%
4. Park – 31%
5. Vanity area – 30%
6. Kids play area – 21%
7. Pool – 20%
8. Gym – 15%
9. Man-made beach – 12%
10. Bikes – 11%
The cinema untied both the males and female in their top choice, however when it came to vanity areas, 45% of women wanted this compared to only 14% of men, a surprising result with the rise of the metrosexual. Over 10 per cent of women wanted a personal shopper compared to 8% of men.
It would seem that men prioritise more active pursuits with over one in ten men wanting a swimming pool and complimentary bikes to tour the airport on.
This dream has become a reality with Hong Kong International Airport already bosting a UA Imax Theatre, offering cinema fans a range of IMAX 2D and 3D movies. Second in line, the sleeping pods can also be found in Abu Dhabi Airport at £8.00 per hour, which is a lot cheaper than a hotel stay!
Skyscanner's Victoria Bailie commented;
“Whilst many of the larger airports are beginning to offer passengers a wider range of facilities, there is clearly a great demand for airport entertainment, especially for those travelling with young children. By offering fun experiences at airports, such as the golf course at Hong Kong International Airport or the swimming pool and Jacuzzi at Changi Airport in Singapore, waiting for a flight becomes less or a chore and more part of the holiday itself.”