INTERNATIONAL. Airport experiences specialist Airport Dimensions has highlighted the growing importance of pre-terminal digital engagement in shaping passenger spending behaviour, according to findings from its latest Airport Experience (AX26) research.
The study, based on a survey of 11,000 travellers globally, indicates that passengers who engage with airport digital services before arrival spend more once they reach the airport, underlining the commercial value of extending the customer journey beyond the terminal.
The findings are particularly relevant for high-value passenger segments. Airport Dimensions reported that affluent leisure travellers spend +36% more on average than standard travellers, while almost half (48%) have already established direct digital relationships with airports.
The research suggests that practical travel information remains the strongest driver of early engagement. Among respondents, the most sought-after pre-arrival services were flight and gate information (29%), airport lounge access (28%) and baggage check-in, drop-off or collection services (22%).
The study also points to strong demand for a more integrated digital ecosystem. More than three-quarters (77%) of travellers said they would like access to all airport services through a single mobile application, combining operational information with retail, food & beverage and other commercial offerings.
Airport Dimensions said the findings present a clear opportunity for airports and concessionaires to connect service-led engagement with revenue-generating retail and hospitality propositions.
Demand for advance lounge booking was particularly strong across several international markets, led by Saudi Arabia (83%), followed by Brazil (74%) and the Philippines, the UAE and China (all 72%).
Commenting on the findings, Airport Dimensions CEO Mignon Buckingham said: “Our new research shows that the airport experience starts long before the terminal, leading to the growing demand to build the pre-airport digital space.
“Airport Dimensions’ Connecta+ app shows how businesses can stay ahead of the curve by combining airport services such as lounge booking and parking information, with retail and dining offerings within a single platform to inform customers and encourage early engagement.
“Pre-airport digital engagement not only improves the customer experience but also boosts non-aeronautical revenue – creating a win-win solution for all parties.”
Read our recent interview with Mignon Buckingham, as she reflects on the key findings of AX26, here. Download the full AX26 research here. ✈
 The Moodie Davitt Report also publishes Airport Hospitality World, the latest edition to our wide-ranging, market-leading travel retail and airport non-aeronautical revenues publishing and event portfolio. Airport Hospitality World covers all forms of airport lounges across international and domestic terminals, including various definitions as follows:
Plus other hospitality-related platforms:
Excitingly, the long-established Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards will embrace Airport Hospitality World from the 2026 edition – the event’s 15th anniversary. |
