Airports invest heavily in retail, dining, lounges, and technology to improve passenger experience. But there’s still one basic amenity some UK airports don’t offer, and that’s free, easily accessible drinking water after security.
For passengers, the absence of hydration points creates frustration. For airports, it risks reputational damage, missed sustainability goals, and even lost revenue opportunities.
Why hydration matters in airports
Air travel is dehydrating by nature. Long queues, climate-controlled terminals, and extended waiting times all increase the need for regular water intake. Passengers are also restricted from bringing liquids through security, which makes access to drinking water airside especially important.
Learn what dehydration does to the body.
When water isn’t readily available, passengers notice. It becomes part of the overall experience and rarely in a positive way. They often feel manipulated into purchasing heavily marked-up plastic bottles post security, which can clash with their principles on sustainability.
Improving passenger experience in airports doesn’t always require major capital projects. Sometimes, it’s about addressing simple needs consistently and visibly.
The problem with the “just ask at a café” approach to post-security hydration in airports
Many airports rely on bars, cafés, or restaurants to provide free tap water on request. While this is better than no option at all, it has its limitations.
Passengers may feel uncomfortable asking, particularly during busy periods. Staff may be under pressure, queues can form, and access depends entirely on whether outlets are open. For early morning or late-night travellers, free water often isn’t available at all.
From a passenger’s point of view, this solution feels inconsistent and inconvenient. From an operational perspective, it places the responsibility on retail staff rather than providing a dedicated, always-on amenity.
Browse our range of water dispensers for high-traffic spaces - perfect for airport terminals!
How free water after security can support airport revenue
A common concern is that providing free water dispensers could reduce bottled water sales. While the direct commercial impact will vary by airport, it’s worth considering how hydration points may influence passenger behaviour more broadly.
Easy access to drinking water can help reduce frustration after security, making the overall airport experience feel calmer and more welcoming. When passengers feel comfortable and well looked after, they’re more likely to relax, spend longer in the terminal, and engage with retail and food outlets.
There’s also the fact that free access to drinking water improves the overall passenger experience, which could influence their decision to revisit the airport during future travels.
Post-security water dispensers can bolster airport sustainability
Passengers increasingly expect visible, practical initiatives that reduce plastic waste and environmental impact.
Installing water dispensers is one of the most straightforward and effective airport sustainability initiatives available. It reduces reliance on single-use plastic bottles, supports refill culture, and sends a clear message that the airport is taking responsibility.
Airports that actively promote refill points are already being recognised for their sustainability efforts1, and passengers are paying attention.
Why now is the perfect time for airports to catch up on water dispensing
Airports across the UK are investing in terminal upgrades, passenger flow improvements, and sustainability programmes. For those without post-security hydration points, the gap is becoming more noticeable.
Not offering free-access water risks positioning an airport as outdated or indifferent to passenger needs. In contrast, visible hydration points show a commitment to wellbeing, sustainability, and modern airport operations.
Installing water dispensers airside is a relatively low-disruption upgrade with long-term benefits for passengers, staff, and the airport’s reputation.
Supporting smarter hydration with Cactus Water Systems
At Cactus Water Systems, we specialise in installing and servicing water dispensers for high-traffic environments, ensuring reliable hydration solutions that perform under pressure.
Our range of high-capacity water dispensers is suited to busy airport terminals, with options designed for continuous use, minimal downtime, and easy maintenance. We also offer flexible servicing packages and installation planning that fits around operational demands.
If you’re reviewing how to improve passenger experience in your airport, or looking to strengthen your sustainability strategy, we’re here to help. Explore our services or speak to our team to discuss the right solution for your terminal.
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