Top 3 Trends in Airport Design for 2023

Passenger numbers are rising – especially in North America – and airports are responding by undertaking remarkable design transformations.

These updates involve more than a new coat of paint. Modern airport design is about revolutionizing the travel experience, using technology to streamline processes and enhance convenience for customers.

In this post, we will delve into the top three trends in airport design for 2023: automation, biometric technology, and smart terminal design.

Automation, automation, automation.

One of the most notable trends in airport design is the increased integration of automation. In the recent past, catching a flight was quite a task. Navigating check in, baggage claim, security, and terminals, all while still managing to be on time for your flight? Not for the faint of heart.

Today, things are shifting. Airports are looking to make passenger journeys as seamless and enjoyable as possible, and automation is often the answer. One example is automated check-in kiosks, which allow passengers to print their boarding passes, select seats, and drop off their baggage without the need for manual assistance.

Of course, another example is automated entrances. Touchless, quick and convenient, automatic doors make the airport experience more efficient and hassle-free.

·       Front entrances. Hurricane rated automatic sliding doors are a great option to help the flow of traffic at front entrances and protect from inclement weather.

·       Security checkpoints. Access control technologies like speedgates, portals, and secure revolving doors help you manage and monitor traffic flow, with less staff involvement.

·       Member lounges and clubs. All glass sliding doors are a sleek, stunning option that can be equipped with badge access and customized with etching. 

·       Restrooms. Low energy swing door operators are a great choice to improve functionality and accessibility for airport bathrooms.

Biometric identification.

Biometric identification has emerged as a game-changer in airport design.

Using methods like facial recognition and fingerprint scanning, biometric technology is able to determine passengers’ identities more quickly than traditional identification. This means quicker, shorter lines, and far more convenient travels.

It’s no wonder that 75% of passengers prefer biometric data to paper identification, like passports, according to the International Air Transport Association.

Not only that, but biometric technologies also provide enhanced security. Speedgates, exit lanes, and secure revolving doors can all be equipped with biometric technologies to provide access control for sensitive areas and security checkpoints.

Smart Terminal Design.

Another major trend in today’s airports is smart terminal design. As innovations unfold, airports are rethinking the way terminals, gates, and checkpoints are designed.

In addition to automated and biometric technologies, smart terminals are all about creating immersive and connected experiences for customers. Interactive information kiosks, real-time flight updates, digital signage, and personalized wayfinding apps are just a few examples.

To offer a pleasing environment for travellers, all the technology is juxtaposed with calming architectural choices: wide open spaces, natural light, local art, and even botanical features.

One company that can handle it all

If you are considering automatic entrances for your airport project, be sure to choose a company that is up to the task. At ASSA ABLOY Entrance Systems, we have the experience and know-how to handle large projects.  From architectural specification to product installation to service, we offer complete turnkey solutions.

If you can dream it, we can help you achieve it. Contact our architectural team today to get started.