TIRUCHY: Waiting for a flight will no longer be an arduous task at the Tiruchy international airport as several popular retail brands and food and beverage outlets are likely to open in the next few months.
Airport authorities said around 20 retail outlets and 20 food and beverage outlets will be established in the security hold area, which can be accessed by both arriving and departing passengers. Officials added that some shops may also come up in the passenger waiting area. The additions are aimed at enhancing the travel experience of passengers, providing them with a modern and enjoyable experience while they wait for their flights.
According to AAI sources, Refex Airports and Transportation, which operates commercial retail spaces in the Pune International Airport and Srinagar International Airport, has bagged the tender/ contract for Tiruchy airport as well. The firm will manage the design, lease, and operations of more than 20 retail brands at the New Integrated Terminal Building (NITB). The outlets will include fashion, lifestyle, electronics, souvenirs, branded fabrics, beauty products, and convenience stores. Further, Navilan Enterprises has been awarded the contract for food and beverage outlets. The food and beverage outlets will offer meals, snacks, and a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, AAI sources added.
Once inaugurated, the stalls would give the airport a multiplex-like feel. U Sriram, a resident of Singapore who frequently visits Tamil Nadu said “Retail and food and beverage outlets at airports improve passenger comfort and convenience by providing shopping, dining, and refreshment options during travel.”
V Vijayalakshmi an Indian citizen residing in Malaysia said such facilities help reduce stress during waiting hours, and offer access to essential items, local products, and quality food without leaving the airport premises.
The upgraded facilities will transform the terminal into a vibrant hub for shopping, dining, and leisure, said SS Raju, the airport director. “The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has already given its approval for the make over. The retail stores are expected to start functioning from June. However, approval for the food and beverage outlets is pending and it may take one or two months for BCAS to clear them,” he told TNIE.