Airports are at a crossroads. While the aviation industry has long been shaped by regulation, infrastructure constraints and legacy systems, consumer expectations are shifting faster than ever. Airports must rethink their role – not just as transit hubs, but as dynamic destinations in their own right.
In our latest report, we dive into the 3 trends that will define tomorrow’s airports, grounded in commercial examples and consumer data from our proprietary research program. Explore 1 of these trends below, and download the full report here
Everything, Everywhere: The desire for multi-purpose spaces
What’s changing?
The rise of remote work, digital nomadism and shifting wellness priorities means airports are no longer just waiting areas – they must function as workspaces, social hubs and sanctuaries for relaxation.
Our data tells us:
- 44% of international travelers express a desire to feel calmer
- 66% of consumers who plan to vacation in the next year agree: “I like stores where I can do different things, not just buy products (e.g., eat, get beauty treatments, relax, work)”
Commercial examples:
Airports worldwide are increasingly integrating co-working spaces to cater to business travelers seeking productive environments during transit. One example is Cochin International Airport in India, which unveiled India’s largest aero lounge on September 1, 2024. Spanning 50,000 square feet, this facility offers a variety of amenities, including guest rooms, boardrooms, conference halls, co-working spaces and a lounge accessible to both passengers and visitors.
Meanwhile, in the air, Qantas is launching a Wellness Zone on its new Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, set to debut in 2026. Located between the economy and premium economy cabins, this space will feature sculpted walls with integrated handles for stretching, helpful videos to guide passengers through simple movements and a self-serve cabinet offering fresh fruit, herbal teas, smoothies and nutritious snacks. This initiative aims to combat the challenges of long-haul travel, especially for passengers in economy, by promoting movement, socialization and stimulation during flights.
Strategic imperatives:
Transform airports into destinations
In doing so, they become more than just a waiting area; they offer a rich, immersive experience that blends travel with leisure, work and exploration. Imagine travelers unwinding with a traditional Tokyo-style izakaya at Narita or savoring a fresh salt beef bagel at London City Airport, all while tapping into local culture and cuisine.
These unique experiences not only enhance the traveler’s journey but also provide a new sense of place, making the airport feel like an integral part of the city it serves.
Design for wellbeing
Incorporate biophilic elements, sensory stimuli and meditation spaces to create calming environments, actively reducing pre-flight stress and boosting dwell-time engagement.
At Foresight Factory, we help businesses anticipate and navigate market and consumer changes. Our predictive intelligence reveals the trends that will define the future of air travel, allowing airports to proactively adapt, removing friction, restoring control to passengers and enhancing the entire journey. To discover two more shifts that will impact airports and passengers in the coming years, download the full report now.
