Adele and Ed Sheeran to serenade passengers at London airport
London City has become the first UK airport to pipe music into its main security search area.
Described as a mix of ‘ambient electronica and upbeat acoustic music’, it will include tracks from Adele, Ed Sheeran, Ben Howard, Jason Mraz and Gavin James.
Two different playlists – either acoustic or electronica – are broadcast throughout the day with sons selected by music consultancy C-Burn.
The move follows research from a music psychologist at The University of Sheffield, Dr Stephanie Bramley, who said background music might provide a positive distraction and enhance the experience for those passing through security.
So far, Ed Sheeran’s songs have received the most positive reaction from passengers and staff, said the airport.
Director of customer experience Melanie Burnley said:"It takes passengers just 20 minutes or less to get from the front door of London City Airport to the departure lounge, and we wanted to enhance the customer experience with a soundtrack to security.
"So far we’ve had a very positive reaction to the musical addition – from staff and passengers alike – with Ed Sheeran currently the most popular artist."
Dr Bramley, who has conducted research into the utilisation of music within gambling environments, said: "In an airport, playing music which is subtle, fits in with the overall ambiance of the security search area, deemed to be familiar, and liked by passengers, might act as a positive distraction where passengers focus on the music instead of the time spent completing the security search process.
"The music at London City Airport may also enhance passenger experience by helping to create a pleasant environment and potentially improving their mood."~~
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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