Airports are no longer just transit points - they’re becoming intelligent ecosystems designed to transform the traveller experience. Across the globe, major travel hubs are undergoing ambitious redevelopment, not just to expand, but to evolve. The future of travel is being built around smarter, more seamless journeys.
Priority Pass’ latest report, Tomorrow’s Journey: Smarter, Faster, Connected, draws on insights from over 12,000 global travellers across 21 countries and territories, revealing how digital innovation is reshaping what travellers value and engage with at the airport. Freeing up valuable time, lowering stress levels, and in turn making them more likely to explore and spend. Offering seamless, personalised rewards and payment solutions at key moments allows brands to build loyalty and long-term relevance.
Key Findings:
Nearly two-thirds (60%) of travellers say automation has led them to spend more at the airport, especially amongst Gen Z (71%) and Millennials (67%), who embrace biometric journeys, smart baggage tracking and digital boarding passes.
With technology upgrades, 45% of travellers save an extra 10–30 minutes at the airport, and 1 in 5 (20%) up to an hour.
45% of travellers say technology has helped them reduce stress.
Over half (59%) of travellers believe airports are adopting AI and technology at the right pace.
While airport technology evolves, genuine service, trust and human connection remain key.
