Airports are more than just transit hubs: they are gateways to adventure, connecting people and cultures. Some airports have mastered the art of making this journey as seamless and pleasant as possible. What sets the nicest airports in the world apart isn’t just their stunning architecture or luxurious amenities, but also the behind-the-scenes processes that ensure every passenger has a positive experience.
Here, we’ll explore three key practices that make these airports exceptional: smooth cleaning processes, smart restrooms, and optimizing cleanliness operations based on passenger feedback.
Smooth cleaning processes: always a step ahead
Cleanliness is one of the first things passengers notice. The nicest airports in the world know when and where they should be cleaning to ensure a pristine environment for passengers.
Cleaning schedules are meticulously planned because managers rely on data to know when and where to intervene. This allows teams to respond to real-time needs, whether it's a coffee spill in a crowded terminal to a restroom that sees a sudden traffic. The result? An environment that’s both clean and welcoming. What better way to spend your 8 hour layover?
Cleaning systems used by the nicest airports in the world
- Digital cleaning schedules. Airports link digital cleaning schedules to their online management dashboard. This type of software sends alerts staff to high-priority areas. It also allows to monitors supply levels in real time.
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- Foot-traffic sensors. Smart sensors in restrooms and terminals detect occupancy levels and cleanliness conditions. These systems can trigger automatic maintenance alerts when needed.
Passenger feedback: the key to continuous improvement
The nicest airports understand that passenger feedback isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. The research paper Evaluating the Traveler’s Perspective to Improve the Airport Customer Experience highlights how gathering and acting on traveler feedback can transform airport operations.
Have you ever encountered the famous panel asking, “Are you satisfied with the cleanliness?” with three smiley buttons when exiting the airport bathroom? Feedback systems at airports go beyond suggestion boxes. Digital kiosks and mobile apps make it easy for passengers to rate their experiences and report concerns in real time. Data from these inputs is analyzed to identify patterns—like restrooms needing extra attention during certain hours—and adjustments are made accordingly.
More importantly, this feedback creates a sense of partnership between airports and travelers. Passengers feel heard, and their input directly contributes to a better experience for everyone.
Two devices to gather feedback at airports
- TaqtOne Smiley device. This device allows passengers to give feedback in real time. Managers also receive the feedback in real time, so that they monitor the satisfaction levels from their smartphone or computer, and adjust the cleaning schedules accordingly.
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- Secure QR codes systems. These allow passengers to simply scan a secure QR code (no-spam guaranteed!) and give detailed feedback, raise concerns or even congratulate the cleaning staff.
The nicest airports in the world succeed because they focus on the details that matter most to travelers: cleanliness, convenience, and communication. By combining efficient cleaning processes, smart technology, and a commitment to passenger feedback, they create spaces that are not only functional but also enjoyable to navigate.Next time you pass through an exceptional airport, take a moment to appreciate the unseen efforts that make your journey so smooth. Behind every spotless terminal and perfectly stocked restroom is a team (and a strategy) dedicated to delivering the best possible experience.
