The future of airports, part 1: Aspirational and spendy destinations
Skift Take
Singapore's Changi and Seoul Incheon have demonstrated that if you give flyers a reason to stick around, they will. And they'll make a conscious choice to transit via your runways, too.
With increasing fervor, airport owners and developers around the globe are reinventing the airport as a place that people actually want to spend time..."Aspirational" airports—those that have mastered the art of distracting and ultimately luring travelers—have the potential to make big money.
This time, it’s fueled by travelers’ acceptance of security lines and the utility of “connectivity,” which allows people to simultaneously be at the office and at the airport dining on a splurge steak and glass of red wine before their flight, sans guilt.
Up Next
Experiences
How Travel Brands Can Seize the ‘Q5’ Opportunity on TikTok
Driven by increased spending on experiences and the digital habits of younger audiences, TikTok has emerged as a key platform for inspiring and shaping travel decisions. Leveraging the platform’s reach early in the year presents a unique opportunity for travel brands to connect with eager travelers.
Sponsored 
Online Travel
Yanolja Teams With ChatGPT and Google. More AI Partnerships to Come, CEO Says
Industry leaders envision a future where consumers can plan, book, and manage all aspects of travel from a single interface. These early partnerships between AI and travel companies bring that vision a step closer.
Online Travel
Southwest Didn't Get the Gains It Expected From New Online Booking Channels
Southwest is looking to expand its online distribution even though it didn't get the love it sought for its now-abandoned 'bags fly free' policy.
Short-Term Rentals
Canada Is the Top Source of U.S. Travel – Now Visits Are Trending Down
If Canadian visits continue to decline, it could cost the U.S. billions in lost spending, and thousands of jobs.
Airlines
Asia’s Airlines Crack Down on Lithium Batteries as Fire Risks Rise
A wave of new lithium battery restrictions from Asian airlines highlights rising safety concerns and follows several onboard incidents.