The exorbitant prices of water, coffee, and food at airports across the European Union have long been a source of frustration for travelers. Despite efforts to address this issue, airport vendors continue to charge consumers significantly more than the standard market rates for these basic necessities.
One of the primary drivers behind these inflated prices is the high rent that airport vendors must pay to operate within the confines of the airport. [1] Airports often charge premium rates for the limited retail space available, which vendors then pass on to consumers in the form of higher prices. Additionally, the costs associated with delivering goods to the airport, such as increased parking fees and storage expenses, further contribute to the elevated prices. [1]
Another factor contributing to the problem is the lack of competition within airport terminals. Once passengers have passed through security, they are effectively captive to the available food and beverage options, leaving them with little choice but to pay the asking price. [1] This lack of competition allows vendors to maintain their high prices without fear of losing customers to more affordable alternatives.
The issue of water pricing in particular has drawn significant attention, with the European Parliament addressing the matter in a written question. [2] The question highlighted the concerning trend of bottled water being priced higher than or equal to alcoholic beverages in European airports, which raises public health concerns as consumers may be incentivized to choose less healthy options. [2] The Airports Council International (ACI) Europe had previously recommended capping the price of bottled water at €1 per 50cl bottle, but this recommendation has not been consistently implemented across European airports. [2]
The impact of these high prices is not limited to individual consumers. A recent Reddit post from a traveler at Dublin Airport revealed the staggering cost of a simple breakfast, with a black coffee, two croissants, and three pots of granola with plain yogurt costing €30. [3] Such exorbitant pricing not only burdens travelers but also raises concerns about the accessibility and affordability of basic sustenance for those passing through European airports.
Attempts have been made to address this issue, such as the European Parliament’s written question calling on the European Commission to consider a requirement for all EU airports to provide drinking water fountains throughout their terminals. [5] However, progress on this front has been slow, and the problem of high food and beverage prices at airports remains a persistent challenge for European travelers.
In conclusion, the abusively high pricing of water, coffee, and food at airports in the European Union is a multifaceted issue that stems from a combination of factors, including high rent, delivery costs, and lack of competition. While efforts have been made to address the problem, more comprehensive and coordinated action is needed to ensure that travelers can access basic necessities at reasonable prices while passing through European airports. [1][2][3][4][5]
Citations:[1] https://simpleflying.com/why-is-airport-food-so-expensive/[2] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-9-2023-002603_EN.html[3] https://www.reddit.com/r/ireland/comments/ygh0vw/dublin_airport_prices_for_breakfast/[4] https://viettaste.mylocalkfc.com/eu-airport-food-and-drink-prices-unmasking-the-extortionate-charges[5] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-8-2015-014480_EN.html
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