Las Vegas Airport Praised For its Unique Services

March 29, 2006
The Nevada airport was named the "airport with the most unique services" for its business centers, work spaces, self-ticketing kiosks and wireless Internet access.

Mar. 28--Got some time to kill at the airport?

Try McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas.

No, it's not what you might be thinking -- gambling or whatever in Vegas. The Nevada airport was named the "airport with the most unique services" for its business centers, work spaces, self-ticketing kiosks and wireless Internet access.

Airport Revenue News announced the winners this month in its 2006 Best Concessions Poll. San Francisco International Airport was designated as having the best overall concession program.

Airports had to meet or exceed "standards of excellence in the industry, which continue to escalate every year," said Pauline Armbrust, publisher of Airport Revenue News in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.

The poll also ranked the financial performances of 82 airports that shared revenue data, with a total of $4.1 billion generated by food, beverage, gifts and other sales.

The top award, based on per-passenger revenue, went to Pittsburgh International Airport, which generated $10.98 per passenger last year.

Richmond International Airport, which is undergoing a terminal renovation, did not participate. But its new concessionaire -- Hudson News -- was named "best airport news & gift operator."

Hudson News has opened a temporary shop in the middle of the second-floor atrium at Richmond's airport as it builds four stores for news, gift and specialty items.

Norfolk International Airport ranked 46th in the sales category, with $5.63 per passenger. Roanoke Regional Airport ranked 73rd overall, with $3.91 per passenger.