The new Terminal 3 at Tokyo’s Narita airport has dispensed with moving walkways and most signs, and has opted instead for springy walk…no, run-ways marked as if for a track-and-field meet.
The terminal, which will serve mostly budget carriers, takes on the athletic theme in part because of the upcoming 2020 Tokyo Olympics, and partly because it saves money and partly (because the to-the-gate and from-the-gate directions are in different colors) because it may help people headed in the right direction.
Gumbo is not sure he shares the optimism of airport officials who put it this way: “To cut costs, we opted not to install the typical moving walkways or illuminated signs. Instead, to offer an exciting walking experience that is easy on the feet, we implemented running tracks used for track and field, and added signage for user-friendly guidance.”
I love the idea!
I just find it hard to envision the reserved Japanese jogging down this airport track….but I, too, like the idea!
Sometimes getting to your gate involves walking half a mile.
Walkways – when they are working – are a necessity to our ageing parents and less mobile neighbours.
I just hope distances in this airport are not extreme.