A social media post has led to a conversation online about money, lifestyle and what it really means to feel “rich”. An X user named Ray shared pictures of high-end airport outlets including Swarovski, Dior and The White Crow and wrote, “Even after 50LPA+ CTC, I don’t feel rich and confident enough to purchase from these Airport Shops .”
His candid admission struck a chord with many users who chimed in about their thoughts on income, aspirations and the psychology of luxury spaces.
Non-aeronautical income of airports
Airports, while traditionally reliant on aeronautical revenues, have increasingly leaned on non-aeronautical income. According to Airports Council International, nearly 40% of total airport revenues in 2023 were from non-aeronautical sources. These revenues coming from