Understanding Your Layover: Time is the Key
When your flight itinerary includes a stopover, it presents a unique opportunity. A layover, meaning the time spent between two flights of a journey, can range from a brief hour to over 24 hours. The crucial factor dictating your options is the duration and your connection type (domestic vs. international). Understanding how to assess your layover time effectively is the first step toward planning any activity beyond waiting at the gate. This involves looking not just at the scheduled time between flights, but also factoring in potential delays and the time needed to securely make your next boarding call.
For many travelers, a layover is seen as an unavoidable inconvenience, a void to be filled by browsing shops or staring at a departure board. However, with foresight, this transit period can become an engaging segment of your trip. The intention here is to equip you with the knowledge to assess what is feasible, ensuring you transform potentially tedious hours into productive or enjoyable experiences, all while prioritizing timely re-boarding.
- Assess total layover duration and connection type.
- Factor in buffer time for delays and re-boarding.
- Short layovers require efficient, airport-bound activities.
- Long layovers open possibilities for external exploration.
- Prioritize security and immigration protocols.
How Long is a Typical Layover?
The definition of a 'typical' layover is broad, spanning from 45 minutes to several hours. Airlines usually schedule connections to be sufficient for most travelers, but this is not always the case. A layover of 1-2 hours is generally considered short, often sufficient only for making your next gate, especially in large or unfamiliar airports. Three to six hours provides more flexibility, allowing for a meal, some shopping, or visiting an airport lounge. Layovers exceeding six hours, and particularly those over eight hours or overnight, offer significant opportunities for more involved activities, including briefly exploring the city if logistics permit and immigration rules allow.
The actual time you have depends on many variables. While airline schedules aim for a minimum connection time, unforeseen events like flight delays, gate changes, or long queues at security or immigration can drastically reduce your usable layover duration. It's always prudent to add a generous buffer to the scheduled time, especially when dealing with international connections or large, complex airports.
Domestic vs. International Layovers: What's the Difference?
The distinction between domestic and international layovers is critical for planning. On a domestic layover, you typically remain within the same terminal or connected terminals without needing to clear immigration or undergo extensive security checks again, unless you're entering a new country immediately after. This means less time is consumed by procedural hurdles.
International layovers, however, can be more complex. If you are flying internationally and have a layover in a country other than your final destination, you might need to pass through immigration and customs upon arrival in the layover city, even if you are not leaving the airport. This is particularly true if you need to collect and re-check baggage, or if your airline requires it. Conversely, if your entire journey is international, and you're simply changing planes, you may be able to stay airside. Always confirm with your airline whether you need to clear immigration or re-check baggage.
Can You Leave the Airport During a Layover?
The question of whether you can leave the airport during a layover depends heavily on two primary factors: the length of your layover and the immigration/visa requirements of the layover country. For shorter layovers, even if you technically could leave, the time required for transit to and from the city, plus security and immigration processing upon re-entry, would make it impractical and risky. However, with layovers of six hours or more, and assuming you meet the entry requirements (e.g., you have the necessary visa or are from a visa-exempt country), leaving the airport can be a viable option for a brief exploration.
It is absolutely crucial to research the specific entry requirements for the country you are transiting through. Do you need a transit visa? What are the airport's transport links like, and how much time do they take? Overstaying your welcome, missing your next flight due to unforeseen delays in the city or upon re-entry, or encountering unexpected immigration queues are risks that must be meticulously evaluated. For many, the peace of mind that comes with staying within the secure airport environment is well worth the decision to forgo external exploration.
Short Layover Survival: Maximizing Your Time at the Gate
When your layover is brief, typically under three hours, your primary objective is to transition smoothly to your next flight. The world of options for exploration or relaxation shrinks considerably, and the focus shifts to efficiency and comfort within the airport itself. Rushing between gates or worrying about missing your connection negates any potential benefit of a short stop. Therefore, the strategy is to use the available time strategically for immediate needs and airport amenities.
This means prioritizing a comfortable seating area, locating your next gate promptly, and perhaps grabbing a quick bite or drink. For many travelers, especially those on domestic routes, a short layover is simply about the connection. However, even in these limited windows, smart planning can make the difference between a stressful dash and a brief, managed pause. The key is to have a plan that aligns with the airport's layout and your own immediate needs.
Locate Your Next Gate Immediately
Upon arrival, before even thinking about grabbing a coffee, your first priority should be to locate your connecting gate. Check your boarding pass or the airport's departure screens. Note the terminal and gate number. If it's far from your arrival gate, start making your way there early. This helps you understand the distances involved and identify any potential obstacles, like long walkways, security checkpoints, or the need for inter-terminal transport.
Knowing where you need to be reduces anxiety and prevents last-minute panic. If your next gate is in a different terminal, immediately find out what transport options are available (e.g., shuttle trains, buses). This reconnaissance ensures that when it's time to head to the gate, you do so with confidence and without unnecessary stress.
Grab a Meal or Refreshment
Even with a short layover, you'll likely need sustenance. Instead of settling for whatever is closest, take a moment to scan the available dining options. Many airports offer a range of choices, from quick service counters to sit-down restaurants. Consider your next flight and choose something that is easy to eat, won't cause digestive discomfort at altitude, and can be consumed within your available time. Hydration is also key; look for water refill stations if you have an empty bottle, or purchase a drink to stay refreshed.
This is also an opportune moment to use restrooms and freshen up. A quick wash of the face or brushing your teeth can make a significant difference in how comfortable you feel on your next flight. Think of these as small, important tasks that make the transit more pleasant.
Utilize Airport Wi-Fi and Charging Stations
Short layovers are excellent opportunities to catch up on communications or get some work done. Most major airports offer free Wi-Fi. Use this time to answer emails, update friends and family on your travel status, or download content for your next flight. Similarly, find a charging station to power up your devices. Low battery warnings are a traveler's nemesis, and a short layover is the perfect window to avoid them. Finding a comfortable spot near a power outlet can turn a waiting period into a productive one.
Be mindful of your belongings while you're connected and charging. Stay aware of your surroundings, and if possible, use a charging station in a well-trafficked, visible area. A brief period of connectivity can significantly enhance your overall travel experience by keeping you informed and powered up.
Moderate Layover Options: Airport Exploration & Amenities
When your layover stretches between three and six hours, the possibilities expand beyond mere transit. This is a sweet spot where you can genuinely enjoy some of the amenities an airport has to offer or engage in activities that break the monotony of travel. It's long enough to relax, explore, and perhaps even indulge in a bit of comfort without the immense pressure of a very short connection. The key here is to balance enjoying the time with ensuring you remain organized and punctual for your next flight.
Think of this layover duration as an invitation to treat the airport not just as a transit hub, but as a destination in itself. Many airports have developed extensive facilities to cater to travelers with ample time, offering services and experiences that can significantly enhance your journey. The goal is to emerge from your layover feeling refreshed and engaged, rather than just having passed through.
Indulge in Airport Lounges
Airport lounges offer a sanctuary from the bustling terminals, providing a more comfortable and exclusive environment. Access can be gained through airline status, premium cabin tickets, lounge membership programs (like Priority Pass), or by purchasing a day pass. Lounges typically offer plush seating, quieter atmospheres, complimentary food and beverages (often including alcoholic drinks), Wi-Fi, and business facilities.
For a moderate layover, a lounge can be an invaluable resource. It provides a comfortable place to relax, catch up on work, or even take a short nap away from the crowds. The ability to enjoy a quality meal and drinks without additional cost can also make the lounge fee a worthwhile investment, transforming a potentially stressful wait into a relaxing interlude. Check your eligibility or explore day pass options before your trip.
Explore the Airport's Shopping and Dining
Modern airports are often destinations in themselves, boasting extensive retail outlets and diverse culinary experiences. From luxury brands and duty-free shops to bookstores and souvenir stands, there's usually something for every interest. Take this time to browse unique local products, pick up gifts, or simply enjoy window shopping. The dining scene can be equally impressive, with many airports featuring acclaimed restaurants or food courts offering local and international cuisine.
Consider this an opportunity to sample local flavors. Many international airports have concessions that highlight regional specialties, offering a taste of the destination you're transiting through. It's a way to engage with the culture of the place without leaving the airport grounds. Look for airport maps or directories to identify interesting shops or restaurants you might want to visit.
Engage in Airport Entertainment and Relaxation Zones
Many airports go above and beyond standard amenities, offering unique entertainment options. Some feature art installations, gardens, rooftop pools, movie theaters, children's play areas, or even live music performances. Research your specific airport in advance to see what it offers. For instance, London Heathrow has an aviation museum, while Singapore Changi boasts a butterfly garden and a rooftop pool. These can turn a wait into an engaging experience.
Beyond entertainment, look for relaxation zones. Some airports have dedicated quiet areas, meditation rooms, or even spas offering short treatments like massages or manicures. If your layover is long enough, a quick spa visit can be incredibly rejuvenating. Even simply finding a comfortable bench in a less crowded area, away from the main thoroughfares, can provide a welcome respite.
For an airport layover, planning ahead is paramount. Knowing the airport's layout, amenities, and any potential costs associated with them will allow you to make the most of your time. Remember to always keep an eye on the clock and give yourself ample time to reach your next gate, especially in larger airports.
Long Layover Adventures: Stepping Outside the Terminal
When your layover spans six hours or more, you gain the exciting possibility of venturing beyond the airport's confines. This transforms a transit point into a mini-destination, offering a genuine taste of the city or region you are flying over. However, embarking on an external adventure requires meticulous planning, a clear understanding of risks, and efficient time management to ensure you return for your next flight without a hitch. The rewards, however, can be immense, turning a long wait into a memorable experience.
The decision to leave the airport hinges on several critical factors: the length of your layover, your visa and immigration status, the proximity and accessibility of the city, and your personal comfort level with managing tight schedules. If these align favorably, a world of exploration awaits. It's about strategically using the extended time to experience something new, enriching your journey far beyond what a standard airport visit could offer.
Research City Access and Transit Options
Before even considering leaving the airport, thoroughly research the city's public transportation system and its accessibility from the airport. How far is the city center? How frequently do trains or buses run? How long does it take to get there and back? What is the cost? Many major airports have direct rail links or express bus services that are both efficient and economical. Investigate options like ride-sharing services or taxis as well, but be mindful of potential traffic delays.
Crucially, you must factor in the time needed to return to the airport, pass through security, and reach your departure gate. For example, if a city is an hour away by train, you need to account for that hour to get there, time in the city, and then another hour to return. Add at least two to three hours for airport procedures (baggage drop if needed, security, immigration if applicable, walking to the gate). This means a layover of six hours might realistically only allow for two to three hours of actual city exploration.
Understand Immigration and Customs Requirements
This is arguably the most critical step. For international layovers, you must confirm whether you are required to pass through immigration and customs. This depends on the country's regulations and your specific travel itinerary. If you need to enter the country, you must ensure you have the necessary visa or meet the requirements for visa-free entry for transit passengers. Some countries, like Qatar with its 'Stopover Pass' or Turkey with its 'Touristanbul' program, actively encourage layover passengers to explore by offering special transit visas or organized tours.
If you do need to enter the country, be prepared for potential queues at passport control. These can vary significantly depending on the time of day and the airport's busyness. Always have your passport, boarding passes for both flights, and any required entry documents readily accessible. If you have checked baggage, confirm with your airline if it will be transferred automatically to your next flight or if you need to collect and re-check it; collecting baggage adds considerable time and complexity.
Plan a Short, Focused Itinerary
With limited time, it’s essential to have a focused plan. Don't try to see everything. Choose one or two key attractions or experiences that are relatively close to the transit route or easily accessible from the airport. For instance, if your layover is in Amsterdam, a quick trip to see the canals or a major museum might be feasible. If it's in Seoul, perhaps a visit to a nearby temple or market. The goal is to get a flavor of the city without overextending yourself.
Researching beforehand allows you to pinpoint attractions that are logistically convenient. Look for places that offer a good representation of the city's culture or a unique experience. Many cities offer organized short tours specifically for layover passengers, which can be a safe and efficient way to see highlights without the stress of independent planning. These tours often handle logistics like transport and timing, allowing you to relax and enjoy.
When returning to the airport, allow ample buffer time. Traffic can be unpredictable, and security lines can be long. It is far better to be waiting at your gate with time to spare than to be sprinting through the terminal in a panic. For an international layover where you've exited the country, re-entering and going through security can take longer than anticipated. Always prioritize making your next flight.
Key Considerations for Any Layover
Regardless of the duration of your layover, several universal considerations can ensure your transit is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. These principles apply whether you have 90 minutes or 9 hours, and they revolve around preparedness, awareness, and strategic decision-making. By keeping these points in mind, you can navigate the complexities of airport transit with confidence and turn what might be a waiting game into a positive aspect of your travel.
These are the non-negotiables that underpin a successful layover experience. They are the foundation upon which all other activities, whether within the airport or outside it, are built. Focusing on these fundamentals ensures that you are always in control of your journey, minimizing potential disruptions and maximizing your comfort and efficiency.
Always Check Your Next Flight Details
It might seem obvious, but always verify the status and gate information for your connecting flight. Flight schedules can change, gates can be reassigned, and delays can occur. Upon arrival at your layover airport, immediately check the departure boards or your airline's app for the most up-to-date information regarding your next flight. This helps you orient yourself and adjust your plans if necessary. If your next flight is significantly delayed, this might open up new possibilities for your layover time.
This simple check can prevent major stress. If you discover a gate change to a distant part of the airport, you'll know to start moving immediately. If the flight is delayed by several hours, you might reconsider leaving the airport, or perhaps invest in a lounge pass to wait in comfort. Staying informed is your most powerful tool.
Pack a Carry-On Strategically
Your carry-on bag is your lifeline during a layover. It should contain everything you might need and want access to, especially if your checked luggage is on a different flight or if you decide to leave the airport. Essential items include medications, travel documents, a change of clothes (especially underwear and socks), toiletries (travel-sized), entertainment (book, tablet), snacks, a reusable water bottle, and chargers for your electronics. Keeping these items accessible means you won't be caught off guard.
If you plan on exiting the airport, ensure your carry-on is manageable. You don't want to be hauling a large suitcase through city streets. Consider packing light or utilizing a smaller backpack for day excursions. This preparedness ensures that whether you're staying in the airport or exploring, you have what you need readily available.
Stay Aware of Time Zones and Boarding Times
It's vital to be conscious of the local time at your layover city, especially if you've traveled across multiple time zones. Double-check your watch and phone settings. More importantly, understand the boarding time for your next flight, not just the departure time. Boarding often begins 30-60 minutes before departure, and airlines can close the boarding door promptly. Missing your boarding call means missing your flight.
Set alarms on your phone for key check-in and boarding times, especially if you are exploring outside the airport or indulging in a lounge. It's easy to lose track of time when you're engaged or relaxed. A few strategically placed alarms can be the difference between a seamless connection and a missed flight. Always err on the side of caution; it's better to wait at the gate than to be rushed.
Airport Specifics: Examples and Tips
While general advice is helpful, the experience of a layover can vary dramatically depending on the airport. Some airports are renowned for their efficiency and extensive amenities, while others are more basic. Understanding the particular characteristics of the airport you'll be transiting through can significantly enhance your planning and enjoyment. This includes knowing about unique features, potential bottlenecks, and the general traveler experience.
Let's look at a few examples that highlight how different airports cater to layover passengers, offering inspiration and practical insights for making your transit time work for you. These examples are illustrative and can help you anticipate what might be available or what to look out for in similar hubs.
Singapore Changi Airport (SIN)
Often cited as one of the world's best airports, Changi offers numerous attractions for layover passengers. Even with short layovers, its efficiency is notable. For longer waits, travelers can explore stunning indoor gardens (including a butterfly garden), enjoy movie theaters, find relaxation lounges, take a dip in the rooftop swimming pool (T3), or even venture out on organized city tours if their layover is sufficiently long and visa requirements permit. The Jewel Changi Airport, connected to terminals, offers a vast complex with shops, restaurants, and the world's tallest indoor waterfall.
The sheer number of world-class amenities at Changi makes it a destination in itself.
Doha Hamad International Airport (DMI)
Qatar Airways' hub is designed for comfort and luxury. It features a beautiful central concourse with significant green spaces, art installations, and quiet resting areas. For passengers with longer layovers, Qatar Airways often facilitates options like city tours or discounted lounge access, allowing travelers to experience Doha. The airport's layout is intuitive, and its facilities are geared towards providing a premium transit experience, even for those not flying in business or first class.
Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL)
As one of the busiest airports globally, Atlanta's ATL presents a different challenge: scale and potential crowds. While it offers a vast array of dining and shopping options, including many local Southern favorites, its size means navigating between gates can take time. Short layovers require prompt movement. For longer ones, exploring the various concourses via the Plane Train is an experience, and while city access is relatively good, the time commitment needs careful consideration due to potential traffic.
For any layover, researching your specific airport using online resources or airline information is key. Look for guides on airport amenities, transit options, and specific layover programs. This proactive research ensures you're prepared to make informed decisions about how to spend your time most effectively.
Packing and Preparation for Your Transit
Effective packing and preparation are fundamental to transforming a layover from a potential stressor into a smooth part of your travel. What you carry in your carry-on, and what you prepare before you even leave home, can dictate your comfort, convenience, and ability to take advantage of your transit time. This section focuses on the practicalities of what to have with you and how to organize it for optimal layover management.
Being prepared means not just having the right items, but knowing where they are. A well-packed bag ensures that you can quickly access what you need, whether it's a charging cable, a book, or a change of socks, without rummaging through everything. This forethought significantly reduces the friction associated with transit periods.
The Essential Layover Carry-On Kit
Your carry-on bag should be more than just a place to store your essentials for the flight; it's your survival kit for the layover. Beyond standard flight necessities, consider items specifically for extended waiting or potential exploration:
- Documents: Passport, boarding passes (digital and printed), visa information, hotel bookings (if applicable), and any required health declarations. Keep these in a secure, easily accessible pocket.
- Electronics: Portable power bank, all necessary charging cables, travel adapter (if needed), headphones.
- Comfort: Neck pillow, eye mask, earplugs, a light scarf or shawl for temperature variations.
- Hygiene: Toothbrush, toothpaste, face wipes, hand sanitizer, any personal medications, small pack of tissues.
- Clothing: A fresh pair of socks and underwear, a clean t-shirt.
- Snacks & Hydration: Empty reusable water bottle (to fill after security), non-perishable snacks.
- Entertainment: A book, e-reader, downloaded movies or podcasts.
This kit ensures you are self-sufficient and comfortable, no matter how your layover unfolds.
Pack a small, foldable tote bag within your carry-on. It's invaluable if you plan to pick up souvenirs or need an extra bag for items you purchase during your layover, preventing your main carry-on from becoming overstuffed.
Pre-Travel Checks for Peace of Mind
Before your trip begins, a few proactive checks can save you significant hassle during your layover. Confirm your airline's baggage allowance and carry-on size restrictions. Understand the checked baggage policy for your specific itinerary – will your bags be transferred automatically, or must you collect and re-check them? This information is critical if you plan to leave the airport.
Additionally, research the Wi-Fi availability and cost at your layover airport. Many offer free Wi-Fi, but sometimes with time limits or requiring registration. Knowing this in advance means you can plan for connectivity. If you intend to use airport lounges, check if your ticket or loyalty program grants access, or if purchasing a day pass is necessary and how to do it efficiently.
The most overlooked preparation is understanding the immigration requirements for your layover country. This single factor determines whether you can leave the airport and requires diligent research well in advance.
Navigating Customs and Security on a Layover
Understanding the processes involved in customs and security during a layover is paramount, particularly for international travel. These procedures can consume significant time and dictate your available options. Failing to grasp these requirements can lead to missed connections or unnecessary stress. The specifics vary greatly depending on your route and destination country.
Your experience with customs and security will differ based on whether your layover involves entering a new country or simply transiting through an airport's international zone. Being prepared for these checkpoints ensures you can move through them as efficiently as possible, preserving your precious layover time for more enjoyable activities.
Do You Have to Go Through Customs on a Layover?
The answer depends on whether your layover country is your final destination or if you are changing planes to continue your journey. If you are flying from City A to City C with a layover in City B, and City C is your final destination, you generally do not clear customs in City B. Instead, you proceed through transit security and head to your next gate. This applies even if City B is in a different country from City A, as long as you remain in the international transit area and do not need to collect baggage.
However, you *might* have to go through customs and immigration if:
- You need to collect and re-check your luggage.
- Your connecting flight is considered a new domestic flight within the layover country.
- The country's regulations require all passengers to clear immigration, even for short transits.
- You are entering the country for a longer layover and have acquired a visa.
Always verify this with your airline before your trip. For example, when flying from the US to Europe via a European hub, you typically do not clear customs upon arrival in Europe if you are continuing to another European country. But if you are flying from Europe to the US via an American hub, you *will* clear US Customs and Immigration in your first US port of entry, even if your final destination is elsewhere in the US.
Navigating Security Checkpoints
Even if you don't clear customs, you will almost certainly need to pass through a security checkpoint when transferring between flights. The procedures are generally similar to your initial departure security screening. Be prepared to remove laptops and large electronics from your bag, dispose of any prohibited liquids (unless they are under 100ml and within a clear, resealable bag), and go through metal detectors or body scanners.
Airport security lines can be long, especially during peak travel times. If your layover is short, or if you’ve spent time exploring outside the airport, allow ample time to get through security. Some airports offer expedited security lanes for certain passengers (e.g., frequent flyer status, premium cabin tickets, or specific security programs), which can be a significant time-saver. If you are re-entering the airport after a city visit, expect the security process to be thorough.
What to Do if You Miss Your Connection
Missing a connection is a traveler's nightmare, but layovers are designed with buffer times. If you do miss your flight due to a delay on the first leg (and you booked a single ticket), the airline is generally responsible for rebooking you on the next available flight at no extra cost. Head directly to the airline's customer service desk or transfer desk in the airport. They will assist you with rebooking and may provide accommodation or meal vouchers if the delay is significant.
If you missed your connection because you were late (e.g., spent too much time exploring outside the airport without adequate buffer), the situation is different. You may be responsible for purchasing a new ticket. This highlights the importance of rigorous time management and building in generous contingency time, especially when venturing outside the airport. Always keep your airline's contact number handy.
Transforming Your Layover from Waiting to Experiencing
A layover, often perceived as mere downtime, is in reality a unique segment of your journey that can be optimized for experience rather than endured as a wait. Whether you have a couple of hours or a full day, thoughtful planning and a strategic approach can turn these transit periods into opportunities for exploration, relaxation, or productivity. The key lies in understanding your options based on time, location, and personal preferences, and then executing a well-informed plan.
By shifting your perspective from passively waiting to actively engaging, you can enhance your overall travel experience. This means moving beyond the generic airport offerings and seeking out tailored activities that fit your available time and resources. The objective is to arrive at your final destination not just rested, but also with a richer travel narrative, having made the most of every moment.
Embrace the Layover as Part of Your Adventure
Instead of viewing a layover as an inconvenience to rush through, consider it an integral part of your overall travel experience. It's an unexpected opportunity to see a new place, relax, catch up, or indulge in amenities you wouldn't normally access. A layover in Doha could mean experiencing its modern airport or taking a quick city tour. A transit through Seoul might offer a chance to visit a duty-free shop with unique Korean cosmetics or even a brief temple visit. Even a short layover can be improved by finding a comfortable lounge or enjoying a specific airport restaurant.
The proactive traveler doesn't just wait; they plan. This planning doesn't have to be elaborate. For short layovers, it might mean knowing where the best coffee shop is or identifying quiet seating areas. For longer ones, it involves researching transport, attractions, and visa requirements. The mindset shift is crucial: see the layover not as a void, but as a space to fill with purpose and enjoyment.
Prioritizing Rest and Rejuvenation
For many, especially during long-haul travel, a layover is the ideal time to rest and recharge. Airports offer various options for this. Many modern terminals have designated quiet zones or nap pods. Airport lounges, as previously discussed, provide comfortable seating and a tranquil atmosphere conducive to sleep. If you have an extended layover, consider booking a room in an airport hotel or a day-use room in a nearby hotel for a truly restful break, complete with a proper shower and bed.
A well-rested traveler is a happier and more effective traveler. Don't underestimate the power of a good nap or a shower to combat jet lag and prepare you for the remainder of your journey. Even a short period of relaxation can make a significant difference in your ability to enjoy your destination upon arrival.
Leverage Technology for a Smarter Layover
Your smartphone is an indispensable tool for managing your layover. Use airline apps to track your flight status and gate information. Airport websites and apps provide maps, dining and shopping directories, and information on amenities. Navigation apps can help you find your way around large terminals. Ride-sharing apps or public transit apps are essential if you plan to leave the airport.
Furthermore, use technology to stay connected and entertained. Download podcasts, audiobooks, or music before you leave home. Utilize free Wi-Fi to communicate with family, check work emails, or plan your next steps. Many airlines and airports also offer streaming services directly to your device. Technology empowers you to be informed, entertained, and connected throughout your layover.