Restaurants and Retail

Restaurants and retail stores located at the airport provide another reason for people to visit the airport. They may visit from the community for the restaurant or retail, or guests may fly in for the restaurant destination. Community members who patronize the airport’s restaurants or retail shops make a connection to the airport and support the business operation. Airport restaurants and retail outlets create high passenger satisfaction levels which may impact passenger choice about future travel to, from, or through the airport.

Restaurants at the airport are unique simply by virtue of their location and can be unique in other ways as well. Restaurant venues usually offer a view of the runway and airport operations, and can draw patrons from the community who are only there for the dining experience. The restaurant may have a theme connected to aviation or history, or may be a place for local art displays or other attractions.

If a restaurant in the airport is not an option, consider cooperative planning for a location nearby. Alternatively, consider options such as a small beverage service, packaged food options in a retail space (kiosk), or self-service vending machines. Also, consider providing seating spaces that are appropriately clustered for small group seating with tables.

Both restaurants and retail shops are leased space run by a vendor and contribute to the airport’s revenue. From an airport revenue standpoint, ACI-NA benchmarking data shows that on average customers spent $5.00 on food & beverage and $3.10 on news, gift and specialty retail per enplanement in 2012. Lease rates at smaller airports will need to be competitive with other commercial lease rates in the local market area. In any case, the potential for lease space for restaurant and retail use can be considered as part of the airport’s financial planning.