FIGURE 2.1 PASSENGER FLOW AT THE AIRPORTS

Figure 2.1 Passenger Flow at the Airports (Micheal Fedrick Design, n.d.)

The layout of an airport terminal has a significant role in achieving efficient passenger processing. Holdrooms are located on the airside of the processing and at the end of the entire departure journey.

2.2 DEFINING THE HOLDROOMS

The uncertainties about a travel plan are a significant source of stress to the passengers. Aside from the security hassles, there are concerns about food and rest amongst others that contribute to the overall travel experience. A passenger has to seek continually, throughout the journey, the answer to ‘what next’. On the other hand, airports face difficulties balancing between passenger comfort and operational efficiency. Travelling can be tiring for passengers with long layovers and flight delays especially when one has to spend a night at the airport. For travelers, waiting is often associated with an unpleasant activity.

The airports over the world have been keen on satisfying the four R’s - Respite, Relax, Reconnect, and Recharge for user comfort by trying to establish a good design of airport lounges. Airport holdrooms play an important role in making sure that the passengers relax before getting on to their flight. Waiting should be seen as not only an attempt to pass time but