What are some of your favorite airports as a traveler? What makes for a great airport is often up to each individual traveler. Certain people like some amenities that may not be important to other travelers. There are features of an airport, however, that benefit everyone.
What makes for a great airport is often up to each individual traveler. Certain people like some amenities that may not be important to other travelers. There are features of an airport, however, that benefit everyone.
While you travel, you may find some airports that you like more than others.
While you travel, you may find some airports that you like more than others.
"I live in Houston and I am very familiar with the Houston airport. I also like the Newark airport as well. It's very nice," says Milena Garita, Reservations Sales Representative for Continental Airlines.
"I was also very impressed with the Los Angles airport. It's very pretty, everything made sense, it was clearly marked, and it was very easy to get around," says Garita.
What are some great features any airport should have?
"Any airport that takes into consideration that ninety percent of the people coming through are stressed, is going to make a good airport," says Garita.
Perhaps the most important feature is customer service. A great airport keeps the needs of all their customers in mind.
"An airport that has bilingual signs is always a good one, particularly in places where international travel is common," says Garita. She goes on to add, "Most signs in the Houston airport are bilingual because of the traffic from Mexico, Latin America and the Caribbean."
This simple feature can make a world of difference to an international traveler.
"A familiar language is nice for an international passenger, it feels much more welcoming when they can see signs in their own language," explains Garita.
While some business travelers may be well versed in two languages, most other passengers are not.
"Airline traffic is more acceptable at all income levels and more people are traveling who do not know two languages. These bilingual signs help them feel welcome and not so overwhelmed," says Garita.
"Another thing that helps make an airport wonderful to visit is quick processing for immigration and customs," says Garita. "Houston has people at customs that speak different languages to assist international visitors."
What other features do flyers appreciate in an airport? Cleanliness is a big one. Other nice features are clearly marked signs, clean restrooms and a comfortable, well-kept place to rest.
"People react to a clean airport that also has plenty of spaces to sit down and relax," says Garita. "Clean restaurants with foods that are widely acceptable to many types of people are also a plus."
"If you keep a clean place and you have clearly marked information, people feel more comfortable," adds Garita. "Restrooms should be accessible and clean. If you go to a clean bathroom when you are tense or tired, it's always more relaxing."
Readily available help is also appreciated.
Garita says, "It's also helpful when they know they have a place to get help. You really have to meet people's basic needs."
What about the décor of the airport? Visual relaxation is a huge plus.
"They should have décor that is calm and relaxing," states Garita. "People may be connecting and will have to stay in the airport for a few hours or even overnight. If you walk into a place that is calming and every thing seems to be in order, this will help the passengers relax."
What you think makes an airport will be totally up to you. Cleanliness and available assistance are always welcome features at any airport. Any airport that keeps your basic needs in mind will be a great place to pass through on your way to your final destination.
