Why airports have moving walkways: You probably didn't know this
Moving walkways are commonplace in most domestic and international airports. As airports get bigger, the need to manage passenger movement through terminals and concourses increases. This is where moving walkways come in.
Despite the common perception that moving walkways increase passenger speed, they are essentially a "human" version of traditional conveyor belts. Moving walkways are designed to manage the flow of passengers while ensuring everyone's safety, Simple Flying writes.
Inside airport terminals, where a large number of people are moving in different directions, controlled movements are needed to minimize congestion. Airports synchronize passenger traffic with the help of moving walkways. These walkways are usually installed in pairs, one in each direction of travel.
Multiple sets of moving lanes are usually installed along a horizontal aisle in a terminal, and the location of the lanes depends on the size and design of the terminal. A pair of moving lanes can be installed on one side, in the center, or as separate lanes on either side of the terminal aisle.
Ever since moving walkways became a necessity for large terminals, interior designers have been finding ways to enhance the travel experience. Airports often feature artwork and sculptures on the walls and ceiling along the walkways.
Passengers get to know the local culture through music and visual art.
Earlier, TravelWise published a rating of the world's most stressful airports.