There’s a new kind of traveler walking through our terminals, and they’re changing everything. At Airport Dimensions, through our yearly global traveler research, we’ve been looking closely at how expectations are evolving, and the picture is clear: today’s travelers want more than just to get from point A to point B. They want experiences that feel intentional, comfortable, and personal.

One of the biggest shifts we’ve seen is the rise of the affluent leisure traveler. These are people who are traveling by choice, not just necessity, and they’re willing to spend when the experience feels worth it. They’re also the group most likely to influence how airport spaces grow and change in the years ahead.

Blending business and leisure

We also can’t ignore the growing bleisure trend. Nearly half (44%) of travelers say they’re mixing business and leisure when they fly. That means the airport isn’t just a place to pass through; it’s a space where people expect to get work done, grab a great meal, and maybe even unwind a little. That shift opens up a lot of possibilities for how we design and activate spaces.

Feeling the crowd

Even with satisfaction on the rise, crowding is still a major concern. Sixty percent of travelers say airports are feeling more packed than ever, and two-thirds say they’d pay extra to skip the crowds. That tells me there’s a real opportunity to lean into premium services, whether it’s lounges, fast-track lanes, or just smarter space planning.

Lounges as the new standard

And speaking of lounges, these aren’t just “nice to have” anymore. Forty-two percent of travelers already use them, and ninety-four percent of loyalty program members say lounge access is something they won’t give up. The demand is strong, and it’s being driven by network programs and card partnerships. Airports that recognize this are going to be better positioned to meet guest expectations and create new revenue opportunities in the process.

Digital is the glue

One thing that ties all of this together is digital. Eighty-one percent of travelers say they’d shop online at the airport if prices were better. And nearly half are already aware of digital tools, which means we have an open door to do more with loyalty, personalization, and smarter targeting. In other words, the tech is here; now it’s about making it meaningful.

Final thoughts

The traveler of tomorrow isn’t really tomorrow anymore; they’re already here. If we’re paying attention, we’ve got a chance to build something better: airports that aren’t just functional but thoughtful, places that travelers want to spend time in, not just pass through.