Business traveller: apps for airports

Mobiata's Flightrack

Unless you’re using a private terminal, the hassles associated with airports will affect you to some degree or another. What apps can help streamline your experience?

What’s on the ground?

Gateguru (for iPhone and Android) aims to be a kind of one-stop shop. With more than 200 airports on its database and flight tracking for 14,000, it is, says co-founder Dan Gellert, “a resource to help travellers”. Information includes US security wait times, airport maps, flight information, user reviews of the airport amenities such as restaurants, and travel tips. “The idea is, it gives you an insider feel to the airport,” says Mr Gellert.

Keep abreast of your flights

Mobiata ’s range of apps (iPhone, iPad, Windows Phone, BlackBerry) such as FlightTrack, track flights in real time and the pay versions offer weather, airport maps and the ability to search for similar flights. Flight+ (iPhone, iPad) lets you track all available flights worldwide in real time.

Those who want even more information might look at the Airportzoom app for the iPad from Flightstats ; a smaller Android app also available.

Apps for hassles

For those who experience real hassle in airports, there are several US-only apps that look after complaints. The Flyersrights app (iPhone) from the eponymous consumer rights group provides you with information about your legal rights, should you find yourself delayed, stranded and so on.

Expect more soon

“If you think about smartphones, there is no better device for getting information into the hands of travellers,” says Mr Gellert. “They are revolutionising travel and this is only the beginning. We’re entering a golden age of travel.”