Gateways & Getaways: AUS Passenger Experiences 2023 Review
Howdy, travelers!
It’s no secret that 2023 will be AUS’s busiest year ever! On our busiest days and every day, our main thing is making sure everyone gets through safely and comfortably. But hey, we've got more to offer than just that! At AUS, we take pride in reflecting our community’s values and delivering an authentic Austin experience. This past year, we’ve launched new services to make travel easier, connecting more travelers than ever before to local artists, and continued to showcase some of the best live music our city has to offer.
AUS For All: Austin-Bergstrom is for everyone
We’re all about helping passengers with unique needs, like big time. This year, we joined the International Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard Program. You might've seen our crew wearing these bright green lanyards with sunflowers. Those are the folks trained to help out travelers with disabilities you can't always see. Learn more here>>>
We've also set up a spot called the Mobility Assistance Zone (MAZ). It's where rideshares, taxis, and special vehicles pick up people who might need extra assistance, like those using wheelchairs or crutches. This gives our travelers with mobility limitations a quick and easy pick-up on the Arrivals Level curbside – providing a shorter distance and a more comfortable journey for those who need it.
Beats, Bites and Flights: It’s what AUS does best
Our airport isn't just about getting you from A to B; it's a shopping and foodie paradise, too. Picture this: scrumptious snacks, hearty meals, and delicious beverages—you name it, we've got it. Guess what? USA Today even dubbed us the 3rd best airport for dine-in options. Yep, you heard that right, we'r one of the best places in the United States for eating! We've also revamped spots like Austin Mercantile and Barton Springs East, making them top-notch spaces.
We've got nine stages where local musicians perform their hearts out. Seriously, we've had a whopping 1,470 shows this year! Boy Genius surprised everyone with concerts during South by Southwest, and big shout-outs to Ray Benson and the Del Valle High School Choir for always putting on great performances.
But it's not just about entertainment. We've got the backs of our local music heroes too. We've teamed up with groups like HAMM and SIMS Foundation to support musicians dealing with money or mental health issues.
Surprise, we're not just an airport, we're an art gallery too! In fact, the art at AUS is seen by more people per day than the Mona Lisa at The Louvre. We've given lots of local artists a platform to show off their incredible work. Right now, you've got until December to catch La Peña’s group show at Zilker Gallery. They showcase awesome Latino art.
Oh, and talking about cool collaborations, we've partnered with Art Spark to highlight differently abled artists in our new Mobility Lounge. We've had two amazing shows with them so far, each featuring a different artist.
Rounding out 2023
AUS isn't just a place for flights; it's a hub of local talent and community support. From our Sunflower Lanyard Program helping those with hidden disabilities to our commitment to showcasing diverse artists and supporting musicians, we're all about making your airport experience not just safe, but memorable.
So, whether you're jetting off, passing through, or returning home, come join us for some incredible sights, sounds, and good vibes. See you at the airport—where travel meets art, music, and community. Don't miss out on the good times!