Hooked-up airports are the last word in convenience

Two of the hotter trends at airports across the country are wireless high-speed Internet access and cell phone waiting lots. One makes you more productive and the other gets you out of airports more quickly.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) just plumbed the place for Wi-Fi. Virtually the entire terminal complex is covered - both sides of security, retail areas, and gate areas. If your laptop or wireless electronic device is set up to operate in the wireless mode, it will automatically be connected when powered up near Sky Harbor's shops and gates.

“The new wireless Internet service will allow travelers to sit in comfort as they log on to check their email, or look at the latest headlines from their home town,” says Phoenix mayor Phil Gordon. He says that the free customer service “is part of our ongoing commitment to making Phoenix a great place not only to visit, but to do business”.

Meanwhile, Arizona's second-largest aerodrome, Tucson International (TUS), now offers free Wi-Fi at several sites around the airport. Hotspots are located in each of TUS's two concourse food courts. You're also within range at Arbuckles' snack bar in the center of the ticketing level (at the base of the third floor escalator) as well as in the TIA Gallery.

As for exiting airports more quickly, cell phone waiting lots are popping up all over. There are three reasons behind the phenomenon: airports want to cut congestion on roadways; for security purposes airport police don't want cars waiting for long periods near terminal entrances; and passengers like the convenience.

Miami International Airport (MIA) is one of the latest to put up a cell phone lot. Family, friends, or business associates can wait there - free of charge - for you to call after your flight has arrived. Then they can drive to the terminal to pick you up at a pre-designated door.

So far, MIA's cell phone lot is open only during daylight hours. By the end of January, lights will be installed for 24-hour operation. Space is free, as long as there's a driver in the car. Don't think of this as a regular parking lot. That's not the idea.

The lot is located just off of LeJeune Road and N.W. 31st Street, and is accessible from LeJeune Road whether you're heading north or south.

© Cheapflights Ltd Jerry Chandler