The airport professional's source for airport industry news, articles, events, and careers.
Issue link: http://airportbusiness.epubxp.com/i/140389
MANAGINGAIRPORTSTODAY Juan Valdez Café serves up a mix of local experiences and good food. Greer says that whether a business, leisure or in-between traveler, everyone wants something different during their time at an airport. With a well thought-out mix of famous brands, local and national favorites, and customer services, a facility can be one sought out the next time a passenger is booking flights. ABOUTTHEAUTHOR Jen Bradley, Owner, Bradley Bylines Bradley is a freelance writer based in East Troy, Wis. She specializes in writing about aviation issues and can be reached via her website, www.bradleybylines.com Songer's time), it also has grown in notoriety. Songer feels he and his team are doing something right, since sales have increased significantly every year. He gives much credit to the "excellent" vendors who listen when their customers ask if they do, or why they don't, offer certain options. They know the client better than anyone, and it shows in the awards the airport has won for its concessions program. CONSUMER COMFORTS MSP has three spas (two with hair salons), and all are successful. The availability of consumer comforts is becoming increasingly common in airport terminals around the globe. In the United States, walking paths, USB charging stations, kids' high-tech interactive play areas and even animal services are the new expected amenities for air travel. MSP's 1.4-mile walking path was developed through collaboration with the American Heart Association, while yoga is a popular relaxation option in SFO's Terminal 2. The other big program at MSP has been at the airport's G Concourse, where Greer has worked with OTG Management to develop new direct-to-gate conveniences. Instead of the normal gate waiting chairs, restaurant-style tables are in their place, with iPads placed at each one. Guests can order food, gifts, etc. from nearby concessionaires directly off the iPad and wait until the order arrives at their table. The Now Boarding pet facility on airport property is another service that's receiving much acclaim from both the airport and traveling community. It's open 24 hours a day so that if individuals want to pick up their pets after their 10 p.m. flight lands, they can. It's also a place for travelers to park their vehicle, and be shuttled to the airport terminal and back. The Data is In. Rampmaster's Engine Management System (EMS) Delivers Unparalleled Savings for Every Gallon of Jet Fuel Pumped An Independent Study by WVU's Center for Alternative Fuels, Engines and Emissions has confrmed that 78 EMS DRIVES UP TO DIESEL FUEL SAVINGS See how EMS is innovating refueling at www.rampmasters.com/EMS. www.aviationpros.com/10017697 June/July 2013 airportbusiness 23