If you’ve ever wandered through an airport, chances are you’ve come across those moving walkways—you know, the flat conveyor belts that help you move faster without walking. Some people love standing on them to relax and enjoy a peaceful stroll while others use them to speed up when they’re running late.
I’ve done both—standing still just to chill while moving, or hopping on and walking quickly when in a hurry. Plus, they’re a lifesaver when you want to avoid getting sweaty rushing to your gate. But let’s be honest—they can also be annoying and sometimes get in the way when you’re trying to navigate busy terminals.
Why Are Airports Removing or Avoiding Moving Walkways?
According to One Mile at a Time, many airports are actually removing moving walkways or skipping them in renovations. Here’s why:
They’re Bad for Airport Businesses
Airports don’t just make money from airlines—they also earn big from shops, cafes, and restaurants. Moving walkways, especially long ones with few exit points, can reduce foot traffic near these businesses.
Imagine you’re on a moving walkway and spot a tempting café, but it’s hard to get off without backtracking a long way. You might just keep going and miss out on grabbing a coffee or snack.
They can also split the terminal space, forcing travelers to pick a side and limiting access to nearby shops.
It’s kind of like driving past a store on the other side of a busy highway—if it’s tough to reach, you’re less likely to stop.
High Maintenance Costs
Ever seen a broken moving walkway? They aren’t cheap to install, run, or fix. Airports have to spend a lot on upkeep, and sometimes it’s just not worth the cost.
Walkways Can Be Crowded and Tight
Moving walkways aren’t very wide, so when lots of people are using them, it can get crowded. If you’re standing on one side and someone with luggage is trying to pass on the other, collisions and bumps happen.
Plus, not everyone knows or follows the “stand right, walk left” rule, adding to the chaos.
What’s Next for Moving Walkways?
Don’t expect moving walkways to vanish completely—they’ll likely stay in spots with fewer shops, like near gates. But overall, as airports renovate and update, you might see fewer of them.
So next time you’re at the airport, enjoy the moving walkway while it lasts—but don’t be surprised if your next terminal walk involves just your own two feet!