

Offering aviation services at 15 airports across the Nordics, Aviator Airport Alliance has now partnered with hospitality management firm, Longheadland, to transform airport lounges and hospitality services across Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA).
In response to passengers’ increasing demand for unique experiences at airports, the collaboration introduces an innovative in-sourcing model designed to elevate the passenger experience and enhance operational efficiencies at airports. By offering a revitalised lounge experience with an emphasis on quality, efficiency and local culture, the strategic partnership between the Aviator and Longheadland hopes to meet the changing demands of passengers and will include the introduction of faciltiies such as coworking spaces, meeting rooms and micro hotels, as well as upgraded airport lounges.
According to Patrick Bayardo, Head of Airport Hospitality at Aviator, airports reluctant to overhaul their facilities are at risk of missing opportunities to diversify and increase revenues.
“Post-pandemic we are noticing a shift in the profile of lounge visitors. These are no longer just business travellers looking for rest and productivity. Today’s travellers expect airports to complement the trip’s experience, wanting a lounge in Madrid to feel different from a lounge in London. That way, the airport stops being a transit stop, it becomes a destination,” he said.
Explaining that Aviator’s model goes beyond conventional outsourcing he said that the the company’s integrated in-sourcing alternative model enables airports to maintain greater control over their hospitality services. When managed directly, airports can ensure that their lounges and the services offered within not only showcase a sense of place offering local culture and cuisines, but also a tailored, premium experience that aligns with the airport’s brand and passenger expectations.
“What makes us stand out is the ability to provide complete services and value-added solutions that align with strategic goals, whether optimising revenues, guest experiences or attracting new airline partners. It’s a hnads-off alternative and a complete circle of services from concept ideation and project development to management. Together with Longheadland and our partner designers, engineers, lounge system providers, hospitality and aviation experts, we are ready to create experiences passengers will love,” Bayardo continued.
Image: Patrick Bayardo, Head of Airport Hospitality at Aviator. Supplied by AviaSolutions Group .