Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

Globally, around 40,000 airports aim to efficiently guide passengers through essential functions like ticketing, check-in, and security while providing amenities such as retail stores and restaurants. Although one can argue that adding health-focused, biophilic elements could make airports more distinctive and culturally relevant, many remain standardised and lack uniqueness, resulting in a "placeless" feel. Integrating local values and green spaces could address this, yet research on these elements’ impact on traveller satisfaction is limited.
This quantitative study surveyed 100 recent air travellers to explore how airport design can enhance well-being and increase restoration. The results reveal that travellers’ value social and dining opportunities, with restaurants, cafes, airport lounges, and quiet zones rated as the most restorative spaces. Additionally, 61.5% of participants preferred outdoor areas for relaxation over indoor spaces. In addition, respondents also expressed a desire for more green spaces and seating options.
Thus, the results of this study suggest that by prioritising opportunities for social interactions, comfort, and implementing biophilic design, airports could create more welcoming and restorative environments that enhance travellers’ airport experience.