Back in June 2024, officials from Miami-Dade approved the introduction of sleep pods within Miami International Airport. There’s an update regarding this, as the facility has now opened, and we have all the information.
## Wait N’ Rest private sleep rooms are now available at Miami Airport
The sleep pod company Wait N’ Rest has launched its latest facility in Miami (MIA), in addition to its existing site in Bogota (BOG), with another location on the way for Toronto (YYZ).
Miami Airport is set to receive two of these facilities from the same company, both located airside. The first one is situated in Concourse D and has just opened, while the second will be in Concourse H and is anticipated to open in the near future.
The Wait N’ Rest facility in Concourse D is positioned one level above the concourse, near gate D15. This location is adjacent to the airport’s secondary American Admirals Club, also near gate D15. Concourse D exclusively serves American Airlines and is connected airside to Concourse E.
From what I understand, the Concourse D facility will feature 45 units, while the Concourse H facility is expected to have 25 units. Both locations will include a mini-lobby, and each sleep pod will offer free Wi-Fi, climate controls, charging stations, soundproofing, a workspace, TV streaming, and access to a private shower and fresh towels. It’s great that they offer showers, as that’s an uncommon feature for these types of sleep pods.
Interestingly, there appears to be various types of accommodations available, suitable for between one to four guests each.
Now that Wait N’ Rest is operational and available for bookings, what are the rates? Currently, it seems that only dual rooms (with two beds) can be reserved.
The charge is $40 per hour, and sleep pods must be booked for a minimum duration of four hours. If you stay for eight hours, the rate is discounted to $200, which means you’re only paying for five hours, representing a 37% discount from the standard rate.
While the Bogota facility is part of the Priority Pass network, there is no indication that the Miami location will participate.
Regarding the airport’s economics, the contract has a term of five years, with an option to renew for another five years. The county anticipates receiving $10 million from this contract if it is extended for the full ten years, as the county collects a 25% share of revenue. Notably, that equates to $4 million in annual revenue for the concept, or approximately $11K each day.
## A significant development for Miami Airport
Miami Airport is my home airport, and while I might not use this facility, I am thrilled to see it. Notably, it’s exciting that Miami is the first U.S. location for Wait N’ Rest.
However, many U.S. airports feature Minute Suites locations, which provide a similar concept, although they are more basic. They are akin to tiny offices with daybeds. I would argue that the Wait N’ Rest concept is more suited for actual rest rather than productivity, so personally, I am drawn to that idea. I must say the Wait N’ Rest setup looks more appealing than I anticipated, particularly with the inclusion of showers.
Presently, Miami Airport has one landside hotel directly connected to the terminal, which is the Miami International Airport Hotel. It’s rather outdated and not linked with any major hotel chain. In 2027, a new Westin Miami Airport is slated to open, which will also be within airport grounds and connected to the terminal.
I’m pleased to see an increase in resting options available at the airport. Proper airport hotels aren’t the best choice if you only want to rest for a few hours, although the sleep pods can become quite costly.
There are certainly many individuals who find themselves in the terminal for extended periods (including overnight) who would appreciate a chance to rest. The drawback is that you’re essentially paying a premium for the convenience of using one of these pods. With a minimum stay of four hours, a stay will cost at least $160, and for that amount, you could also book a hotel room for an entire night. Will travelers consider these costs worth it for the added convenience, or is the pricing somewhat hopeful?
## Conclusion
Wait N’ Rest has established a new airside rest facility at Miami Airport. It’s uncommon to see these proper rest amenities in U.S. airports, making this a beneficial addition. While this is highly convenient for those seeking to catch some sleep, the challenge remains in justifying the price. At $40 per hour with a minimum four-hour stay, you are essentially paying a premium compared to hotel stays.
What are your thoughts on the new sleep pods at Miami?