Many airports expect you to pass the time giving them more money by reorganizing themselves into mini shopping malls. It’s sad that so few airports have viewing areas or other aviation related activities to help encourage future aviation careers. Syracuse airport is one of the exceptions, as land side they have a “Discover the Airport” exhibit with a cockpit and cross section from a 727 aircraft, airport equipment, and audio and video lessons on airport operations. The exhibit is free of charge and accessible in the main hall between Terminals A and B.
Cross section of a 727 showing the famous double bubble cross section with seats, galley and suitcases to give an idea of size:
The 727 cockpit is usually the highlight among the children running through the exhibit.
Flight engineer control panel
And being able to stand right next to the the landing gear gives visitors a good perspective of its true size.
Where are other airport exhibits like this? I know you can take a shuttle or short taxi ride from IAD to the Udvar-Hazy Museum but are there other in-airport exhibits that are easy to see during layovers?
