A Push to modernise airports to fuel more shopping

All over the world airport operators are updating aging terminals and constructing new ones, wooing travelers with retail and dining options that encourage them to spend more money. And they are spending as much as 30% more at some airports, according to OTG, the airport concessionaire. When revenue from airport amenities goes up, the fees airlines pay to use an airport can go down, which in turn can attract more airlines to offer service to the region. It is up to the airport “to be attractive to the customers; both the airline and the traveler,” said Angela Gittens, director general of Airports Council International, a trade group. By providing more services and better shopping, an airport can “keep their aeronautical charges down and entice airlines,” she said. <br/>