Crowd Control

Why affluent travelers are willing to pay more to escape the airport chaos

- STORY BY IVY YOUNG

AIRPORTS MAY BE enjoying high satisfaction levels, but a deeper shift is underway. According to the new AX25 Airport Experience study by Airport Dimensions, airports risk falling behind the expectations of their most lucrative customers: Affluent Leisure Travelers (ALTs).

ALTs now make up 42 percent of frequent fliers, yet account for a staggering 81 percent of all airport spending. This emerging group, says Airport Dimensions CEO Mignon Buckingham, is “showing a clear willingness to spend when the offer aligns with their values and lifestyle.”

Crowding Is Undermining Comfort

While satisfaction is up, 66 percent of travelers say airports feel more crowded, with nearly 30 percent saying it's “a lot more crowded.” Only