Gen Z travellers are transforming British airports into their own runways, with new research from Manchester Airport revealing that 47% plan a dedicated ‘airport outfit’ before their trip. For many, the terminal has become part of the holiday itself – and the perfect backdrop for TikTok and Instagram.
According to the survey, one in three Gen Z passengers (33%) take photos or selfies at the airport as part of their pre-flight ritual, turning departure lounges into social media stages.
The study also shows that passengers mentally switch into holiday mode 50 minutes before arrival at the terminal, with more than half (53%) saying they feel the buzz before stepping inside.
Once at the airport, browsing World Duty Free (41%) topped the list of pre-flight traditions, followed by grabbing a coffee or pre-flight drink (40%) and last-minute shopping for essentials (26%). Other popular rituals include listening to playlists, taking selfies and even watching planes take off.
Top 10 pre-flight rituals
1. Browsing World Duty Free (41%)
2. Buying a coffee or drink (40%)
3. Shopping for travel essentials (26%)
4. Taking photos/selfies (25%)
5. Wearing a dedicated airport outfit (21%)
6. Visiting a specific airport restaurant or bar (19%)
7. Listening to a playlist (18%)
8. Switching phone to “do not disturb” (16%)
9. Letting children explore activity zones (11%)
10. Watching planes take off (9%)
To celebrate the research, Manchester Airport unveiled a giant 6ft deckchair installation in Chester, offering travellers the ultimate holiday photo opportunity.
Jennifer Byrne-Smith, Director of Customer Operations, said the findings highlight how the airport itself has become a key part of the travel experience: “People love to get their holiday started at the airport, whether it’s a pre-flight meal, a luxury purchase at Duty Free or simply soaking up the atmosphere. That’s why we’ve committed £1bn to enhancing passenger experience, with upgraded dining, retail and more comfortable spaces to ensure every journey begins on a high.”