Hack: IYKYK
For people like me who travel a lot between the same cities, it really helps to develop a routine and Los Angeles World Airports is doing the work to help make the process even smoother at my home airport, LAX. I always park in the same parking lot, I know how long it takes to clear security, and I have my go-to seats in the airport lounge I frequent (more on airline clubs later).  

Bonus Points: I definitely get stressed before flying into airports I don’t know so well. Thankfully, technology comes to the rescue. Most airline apps feature terminal and amenity maps that are geared to help passengers navigate seamlessly, so take the time to orient yourself to your destination airport before you land. Trust me, it is worth it when you land.  

Hack: Find your sweet spot. 
It’s time to settle in, grab a bite and something to sip, and send out a few last emails or double-check you’ve set your out of office auto-response. The modern airport is no longer just an expansive cut and paste of hold rooms, non-descript bars, and magazine stands. Today’s aviation design experts are seizing the opportunity to craft an entirely new travel experience, creating engaging environments that are intentionally in service to all travelers. From bespoke local retail and food venues to art installations that will captivate creatives and curious kids alike, the future of airport design is all about interest, intrigue, and an infusion of local character. As a true aviation geek, my favorite spot in any airport will always be at the window observing the bustle of aircrafts coming and going, hearing the visceral growl of jet engines from the runway. 

Bonus points: Airports are blurring the line between travel, workplace, and hospitality spaces. It used to be that you had to visit an airline lounge to experience perks like oversized seating, comfortable nooks to take a work call, or a communal table to plug in your device and share some “alone together” time with fellow passengers. If I were to gaze into my crystal ball, I think we’ll continue to see more lounges and amenities at all points in the airport terminal, from frequent flyer lounges to gate areas and beyond, offering a thoughtful and inclusive passenger experience for all travelers. 

Hack: What the Hull? 
You’ve gotten to know your airline terminal, you’ve looked at your airline’s app, and you’re feeling solid! But do you have the 411 on the layout of your plane? Personally, I don’t like bulkhead seats and I alternate between window and aisle depending on the aircraft type. Let those of us who hit the skies all the time make it smoother flight for you, regardless of how frequently, or infrequently, you buckle those belts and head into the big blue. 

Bonus Points: You don’t have to be a frequent traveler to take advantage of the knowledge community of well-traveled, and ahem, fastidious travelers like me. SeatGuru will show you all you need to know about your plane’s seating configuration and your seat.

Hack: Be on Time (Part 2) 
Be on time to your time zone. Do a little pre-immersion into your destination by setting your watch to the local time of wherever you’re headed. I never used to do this but being a road warrior teaches you a few things. Whenever I travel across time zones, the first thing I do once I’m on the plane is adjust my watch for my destination. Even if you are 3, 5, or even 10 hours away from arrival in that new place, the mental adjustment helps set the tone.

Adjusting our circadian rhythm is key to a smooth transition. Have you noticed that the newer planes change the color of the lighting from cool blue to warm yellow and orange tones to help reset those rhythms? We even created a tool to help designers do it well. 

Bonus points: Consider tailoring your beverage choice to your time zone, too. Morning in Milan? Doppio espresso, per favore. An evening in Madrid? Gin and tonic with twist, por favor.