Rooftop pools and holographic staff – the future of airports revealed

Airports of the future will allow people to relax in rooftop pools, yoga retreats and 3D cinemas, while holographic staff take care of passengers’ needs, a new report has predicted.

In its ‘Future of Travel 2024’ report, Skyscanner has predicted that in 10 years’ time airports will become places to unwind and relax while waiting for flights, as new technology takes the stress out of the travel experience.

According to Skyscanner, entirely automated airports will eliminate check-in desks and queues, with passengers able to “check in and drop off their bags at Starbucks”, before using their smartphones to monitor the queue times at security and choose the best route to get to their gate.

Digital luggage tags will include all flight details and destination information, allowing travellers to track their bags, while biometric data cards will replace passports, reducing immigration queues.

“Emerging technologies mean that by 2024 the travel journey from our home to holiday destination has the potential to be a stress-free and enjoyable experience – full of fun distractions for everyone,” said Filip Filipov, Skyscanner’s head of B2B.

“Airports and flights will no longer be the price we pay to travel but instead will signify the start of our holidays where travellers can relax and create the perfect space to suit their needs whether they’re flying for business or leisure.”

Skyscanner also predicts the rise of the “Airside Aeroville”, with possible guest amenities ranging from art galleries and gardens to rooftop pools, 3D cinemas and yoga retreats. Skype-style hologram systems will also be available, allowing passengers to hold 3D conversations with virtual staff.

Skyscanner’s ‘Future of Travel 2024’ report has been produced in association with The Future Laboratory and gathered the input of 56 experts and futurologists.