Restaurant operators may open food areas at terminal gates
2011-01-07
When waiting for a flight at an airport, seating can become quite scarce at the gate, leaving many travelers a bit hesitant to leave their spot for a bite to eat. According to USA Today, restaurant operators have noticed this trend and are considering opening new food areas in a more convenient location.
"The comfort level of individuals who fly is maybe to move only [about] 250 feet from their gates," Bill Hooper, an airport architect, told the news provider. "They want a line of sight. People want to stay in proximity of their gates."
One operator in particular, OTG Management, has been working with Delta Airlines at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. The company has transformed the airline's terminal offering delicious French and Italian cuisine right at the gate, with Apple iPads installed with menu applications so travelers do not have to leave their seats to order a meal.
Several other airlines are considering offering similar amenities in their terminals. For example, low-cost carrier jetBlue has reportedly begun offering a menu-delivery service at its JFK gates.
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