We all love to travel but getting through the airport is never the best part of the trip. Nothing puts a damper on a trip quite like a lost bag, a long TSA line, or another flight delay. However, a few customer service driven airports are working to change this and to create a truly enjoyable and relaxing airport experience for their travelers.
We’re here to tell you all about the most unique airports in the United States that will make you secretly wish your flight was delayed.
1. Indianapolis International Airport
Located only seven miles southwest of downtown Indianapolis, the Indianapolis International Airport (IATA) is a recipient of Airports Council International’s 2020 Airport Service Quality Award for Best Airport in America for the ninth year in a row. IATA is unique for its modern design and tech-savvy features, including an automatic walkway with futuristic motion-activated lights. Dedicated to customer service, IATA provides over 31 diverse dining and shopping options, as well as several health and wellness resources for travelers to take advantage of. IATA offers nursing mothers rooms, meditation rooms, AHA walking paths and a hands-on CPR training kiosk.
2. Pittsburgh International Airport
Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) is a civil-military international airport in Findlay Township and Moon Township, Pennsylvania. The airport is home to several commercial airlines and military flights, offering more than 125 nonstop departures across the U.S. Travelers can expect services like free Wi-Fi, club lounge, military lounge, as well as health and wellness areas including a sensory room for anxious travelers, a pet relief area, two massage services and a mother’s nursing lounge. The ‘Presley’s Place’ sensory room is a calming getaway for anxious travelers with sensory sensitivities and their families to de-escalate before boarding a plane or even after landing. Features include a realistic airplane cabin experience provided by American Airlines and Magee Plastics, soundproof spaces, adjustable lighting, a sensory-friendly restroom with an adult changing station and adjustable sink, calming activities and an abundance of comfortable seating options. Additional airport amenities include a direct connection to the Hyatt Regency Hotel, a Tuskegee Airmen Exhibit, a Mr. Rogers Exhibit and over 45 dining and shopping options.
3. Portland International Airport
Portland International Airport (PDX) is also a civil-military international airport and Oregon’s largest airport with nonstop flights to over 90 destinations worldwide. The airport boasts nearly 60 shops and restaurants for travelers to indulge in, although its most unique feature is its appreciation for the arts. The airport offers nine art exhibits throughout the airport terminal that feature regional artists curated by The Port of Portland. The art appreciation doesn’t stop there; throughout the airport local volunteer musicians give live musical performances, playing all things contemporary, jazz and classical sounds.
4. Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport
Located just outside the small city of Bozeman, Montana, Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) provides non-stop flights to fifteen cities in the U.S. with connecting flights all across the world. As soon as travelers touch the ground, they are greeted by staggering snow-capped mountains and expansive views of all Big Sky Country has to offer. BZN is unique for its effortlessly rustic, log-cabin-esque design features, offering crackling fireplaces and artwork exhibits showcasing the natural landscapes of beautiful Southwestern Montana, perfect for the outdoor enthusiast.
App in the Air’s airport recommendation features allow travelers to get the best insight on airports’ dining, lounge, shopping and so much more in real-time from other users. Instead of dreading your next airport excursion, make it a fun part of your trip by taking advantage of everything your airport has to offer!