Besides the general facilities available at an airport, first and business class lounges are open to passengers traveling in these classes. Being a frequent-flyer will also gain you access to some airline lounges, as will membership of certain international business-centre networks. Such airport lounges are especially well-equipped for the business traveler, offering communication facilities and private work stations, in addition to comfortable seating and light refreshments.

Besides airline lounges for the use of upper-class passengers, some credit card companies and organistations like the IAPA (International Airline Passenger Association) have lounges for members, who pay an annual membership fee. The fee structure may vary but is generally quite reasonable and worth considering for those who fly frequently on economy class.

Sometimes the whole airport is giant lounge, shopping mall and entertainment center that offers everything from live bands and movies to science center and elaborate shopping facilities. Singapore's Changi Airport is an example of an airport with many of these amenities.

There is, of course, a downside to airports as well; while spending some time at an airport can be fun, some airports can be drab and uncomfortable. Air-conditioning can fail and excessive crowding can be oppressive, so try to fine tune your check-in procedure or transit plans to minimize delays and discomfort.