As the demand for global travel continues to rise, passengers are continually seeking ways to enhance the convenience and comfort of their journeys. Although air travel is often considered the quickest way to move from a to b over a significant distance, the airport experience indubitably adds time and inconvenience that can make the journey less appealing.
To support the industry’s continued growth, it is thus imperative for airports, airlines and suppliers to work together to promote passenger satisfaction throughout all stages of the journey.
In-airport hotels are a popular amenity to help meet this requirement, providing travellers with an easily accessible respite before, after or between flights. For example, at London Gatwick Airport (LGW), YOTELAIR’s facility is located landside in the South Terminal, just a few minutes walk from departures and arrivals.
Complementing Ground Transport
Airport accessibility plays a key role in enabling passengers to use air travel. With airports often located at a distance from city centres, ground transportation options can limit a passenger’s ability to catch certain flights. For example, even major hubs such as Heathrow Airport (LHR), which is served by London’s rail network, face limitations. Indeed, the first train to Heathrow Airport from Paddington arrives at 05:47, while the last train leaves Heathrow at 23:25. For early morning flights that require passengers to arrive outside of these hours or for passengers travelling from further afield, it may be necessary to also book a hotel and taxi.
To mitigate this inconvenience and remove the need to organise a transfer from a nearby hotel, in-terminal hotels are becoming popular at some airports.
In recognition of the varied schedules of passengers, YOTELAIR’s rooms can be booked by the hour or at a day rate. Rooms are offered for solo, couple and family groups and are equipped with power showers and adjustable, soothing lighting within a quiet, soundproofed environment. Hot food and drink can also be ordered, allowing customers to enjoy a peaceful retreat from the busy airport environment.
Such services can make flying more attractive by removing the stress associated with travelling to the airport and worrying about arriving on time. Instead, passengers can wake up and simply walk directly into the airport to catch their flight. Likewise, they can use the facility upon arrival to recharge for onward travel.
Strengthening the Airport’s Brand
Due to the value offered to travellers, in-airport hotels also enhance an airport’s brand and can help make it a preferred transit destination, thus attracting international travellers and driving demand for flights.
This is true for business travellers as well as leisure travellers, especially when the facilities provide high-speed internet and a convenient and quiet space to work.
As a result, in-airport hotels are arguably a staple amenity in helping to shape a positive airport experience. It is therefore no surprise that major international hubs such as Singapore Changi, Amsterdam Schiphol, Paris Charles de Gaulle and Istanbul Airport are all home to YOTELAIR hotels.
Effective Use of Airport Space
Despite these benefits, it is worth noting that airports often face significant restrictions with space and land availability, especially in close proximity to passenger services.
To fully optimse the use of space, YOTELAIR cabins have a smart design that provides a unique yet comfortable experience. For example, its adjustable beds can convert from a sofa to a full-sized queen simply by pressing a button. What’s more, copious luggage storage space is provided beneath the bed, while the room’s desk and chair fold away when not in use. However, within the compact space, travellers do not miss out on desirable amenities such as a monsoon rain shower in the ensuite bathrooms.
Thanks to the value that can be delivered within a small footprint, in-airport hotels like YOTELAIR London Gatwick Airport are arguably an essential service for many modern travellers, offering unmatched convenience, flexibility and comfort. By providing travellers with a private oasis in the middle of a busy terminal, these facilities add a level of comfort that can help make the journey as enjoyable as the destination.
Consequently, in-airport hotels enhance the overall efficiency and reputation of airports, helping to shape a positive future for the industry and its passengers.
YOTELAIR is part of the YOTEL brand, which offers hotel accommodations globally. The company also provides YOTELPAD facilities, designed for longer stays.
