Wayfinding is the discipline that helps people navigate their way around a large building or environment. The scale and complexity of the modern airport terminal makes wayfinding difficult for even the most experienced traveller. Add the physical impairments that result from ageing or physical disability and the airport environment becomes an even more daunting prospect.

This study asked how airport buildings could better meet the diverse mobility needs of the travelling public, by making it easier for all ages and abilities to find their way around without an over-reliance on signs. A key objective was to generate a set of informative and inspirational ‘Wayfinding Principles’ for use by BAA architects and designers in developing new airport terminals.