How to Pass Time While Waiting at the Airport

Inexpensive or Free Activities to Kill Time When Flights are Delayed

Apr 30, 2009

Visit the airport museum or viewing deck, people watch, or indulge in a manicure or other spa treatment to pass the time at the airport during flight delays.

Flight delays and cancellations happen every day for a variety of reasons. Whether business travelers are snowed in or delayed for mechanical problems, there are ways to pass the time at the airport, most of which are free of charge or inexpensive.

Pass the Time at the Airline Club Lounge

For business travelers delayed for more than just an hour or two, food and drink vouchers may be available. In addition, gate agents may have on hand another compensation: passes to the airline's club lounge inside the airport, where travelers can relax in a comfortable lounge complete with snacks, drinks, and computer and business equipment. Color televisions are also available to catch the news or take in a sports game.

People Watching and Airplane Watching

Airports can be a good place for people watching. Choose a comfortable area and sit down and watch passengers go by. Try to guess where each one is headed or who they might be talking to on their cell phone.

Many airports have viewing decks – open air platforms or patios where incoming flights landing and outgoing flights taking off can be watched. In addition, the viewing decks may be adjacent to a bar or snack area, and provide entertainment such as music or broadcasts from the air control tower. Head for the viewing deck for some fresh air while waiting for a flight.

Browse the Museum or Other Airport Attractions

Most airports feature local artists' work in the terminal, whether in a gallery or simply hung on the wall in a concourse. Browse the artwork for inspiration or simply to pass the time.

Many airports also offer other attractions, such as water fountains or interesting architecture. For example, the McNamara Terminal in Detroit Wayne County Airport has a jumping water fountain feature, where the water dances and jumps around – an attraction for adults and children alike. There is also comfortable seating around the fountain, where passengers can people watch or just sit down and relax.

Get Pampered with a Manicure or Other Spa Treatment

It is common nowadays for airports to host at least one spa, where business travelers can get a manicure or pedicure, or a quick massage. Many offer services at discounted rates. Check out the airport directory to locate a spa and treat yourself while waiting for a flight.

There are plenty of activities to do while waiting at the airport for a flight, many of which are budget friendly for the business traveler.

The copyright of the article How to Pass Time While Waiting at the Airport in Business Air Travel is owned by Teresa Shaw. Permission to republish How to Pass Time While Waiting at the Airport in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.