Airport tray aesthetic delays spark frustration in airports
The world of fashion and travel frequently introduces new trends that rapidly gain popularity on social media. The so-called airport tray aesthetic is one of the latest, taking over Instagram and TikTok. This trend is particularly favoured by Generation Z, who are increasingly eager to share their travel experiences, transforming this content into unique visual masterpieces.
What exactly is the airport tray aesthetic? It essentially involves taking photos during airport security checks, but it's not about ordinary shots. Trendsetters arrange their items—from passports and sunglasses to designer handbags—on airport trays in such a way that they resemble carefully arranged product photographs, like those in fashion magazines.
Every detail is perfected—items must look flawless, and the photo should be aesthetically pleasing and harmonious. However, it doesn't stop at just one photo. Many people create a series of shots, documenting their "airport" aesthetic.
Frustration of passengers and staff
As with many social media trends, the airport tray aesthetic evokes mixed reactions. Fashion enthusiasts praise the creativity and ingenuity, but not all passengers share this enthusiasm.
In reality, this trend is becoming a source of frustration for those who need to get through security checks quickly and efficiently to catch their flights. The increasing time these "fashion sessions" takes irritates those rushing to their plane.
Delays and impact on flights
It's not just passengers who have a problem with it. Airport staff also express their dissatisfaction. Many security personnel complain about the prolonged procedures and the need to wait until passengers finish their photographic experiments. Delays, which may initially seem minor, accumulate and have a real impact on flight schedules. Moreover, more and more airports worldwide are reporting situations where delays at security checkpoints contribute to delays of entire flights.
This trend, although seemingly innocent at first glance, is really starting to get on our nerves. Instead of just going through security, passengers arrange their items like they're in a photo shoot, which significantly slows down the process — says one airport employee who wished to remain anonymous.
Popularity of the trend is growing
Despite the criticism, the airport tray aesthetic is gaining popularity. Photos with this hashtag collect thousands of likes, and social media are flooded with new shots from airports worldwide.
Like many others, this trend will likely remain until another emerges. However, for those who just want to get through security quickly and catch their flight on time, the airport tray aesthetic is another example of how the influence of online communities can change the reality of everyday travel—not necessarily for the better.
Amid growing frustration, the question remains: will airports start to respond more decisively to counteract the lengthening security procedures? Time will tell whether the airport tray aesthetic will be just a fleeting phenomenon or if it will become a permanent part of travel culture.
