After first rolling out in the Middle East, sleeping pods that serve as self-contained cocoons for weary travelers have launched at Helsinki Airport, a first for Europe.
Instead of curling up into the fetal position on the terminal floor, for €9 an hour flyers with long connections or who’ve missed their flight can now rent out a GoSleep pod, a cleverly designed unit that features a sliding shade to shut out the din of rolling suitcases, airport announcements and fluorescent lights.
The unit also comes with spaces for stowing hand luggage and an outlet for charging phones and digital devices.
Interestingly, while the pods are a Finnish invention, they land in Europe and Helsinki years after first rolling out in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
A total of 19 pods will be placed throughout the airport.
In a worldwide ranking of the best airports for “sleepability,” Helsinki ranked third overall after Singapore Changi and Incheon International Airport in Seoul, for dedicated areas that feature reclining lounge chairs, a soothing ambiance and friendly staff.
Changi airport also offers cubicles and private napping rooms for a fee.
Last year, it was announced that Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, known as the busiest airport in the world, would expand its dedicated sleep lounge and open 17 additional suites equipped with showers for international flyers this year.
