Design Thinking Airport Experience

The effort of being a global citizen inevitably results in people spending considerable amount of their travel time on airports. Not only one has to be checked in couple of hours before starting one's air affair but people also need to make flight connections especially with international travel. Not everyone is bestowed with luck when it comes to flight connections. Often people have airport layovers that span multiple hours. At times, Gods of weathers may be unhappy and make these layovers even longer and excruciating.

I have been guilty of abusing air travel. As a result, I have served my share of time on multiple airports in last eleven years. I have also heard and read experiences of my fellow felons. As I write this post, I consider myself as somewhat of an expert when it comes to applying design thinking on airport experience. Who are we kidding? I currently have a five and half hours layover in Guangzhou airport in China and have nothing better to do at the moment than write this post.

There have been tremendous investments in airport infrastructure in last decade. As world economies have become more global the need for people to travel and connect has grown in response to that. The investments in airport infrastructure have not necessarily translated into a better airport experience for travelers though. Some airports do a better job than the others but most do not understand and respect the out of home, tired traveler who is trying to find some shred of comfort on the ground before she takes off. Here are a few things that would enhance traveler's experience and make airport some money at the same time:

Better information/signage for existing amenities and features. Many airports already have useful amenities like showers and prayer rooms. But where are these? Often I have realized such amenities exist when I am about to leave the airport or as a tribal tale from fellow passengers. Why are these things not advertised appropriately? Are airport authorities worried that travelers would flock around these and not spend their money on stupid duty free shops? Well put a small fee on it; make some money out of it. Many would rather spend on a hot shower after a fifteen hour flight than buying the latest Chanel perfume.
Airport sleep pods. How can travelers get some quiet and stretch their legs? Why do they have to sit on uncomfortable benches and chairs? The waiting and boarding areas can be equipped with sleep pods. Swipe your card for the time you want in the pod, go in and forget everything for that time. Some airports are offering sleep pods such as Abu Dhabi's dedicated sleep lounge but it can be taken many steps further.
Bring the outside in - fresh air, sunlight, green, water and land. Incorporating creative child friendly landscaping features in the interior design of airport will definitely help travelers relax. Kids can also expend their energies in this environment and let adults breathe easier.
Airport hotel by the hour. Sounds kind of sleazy I know. But I think it would be wonderful experience for travelers especially travelers with young families. Having a private place to yourself for few hours sounds like heaven to me!
Last but not the least by any means - high quality fresh food options. Most airports have gone wrong with their food courts and restaurant options in my opinion. The food feels stale, tasteless and just a minor upgrade from what is served in the flight. Why is it so difficult to serve quality food on airports? With 20-30% higher prices that one has to shell out on an airport, one feels entitled to a decent meal.

What else is important to you when it comes to airport experience? Would love to hear your thoughts!