People Living In Airports: A Unique Community

It may seem like a plot straight out of a movie, but living in an airport is a reality for some people. Whether it's due to protesting, asylum-seeking, or issues with visas and passports, people have taken up residence in airports for weeks, months, or even years. One of the most famous cases is that of Mehran Karimi Nasseri, who lived in Paris' Charles de Gaulle Airport for 18 years and inspired the movie The Terminal. But he is not alone; other notable cases include Edward Snowden, who spent over a month in a Russian airport, and Sanjay Shah, who resided in a UK airport for over a year. These stories highlight the unique challenges and circumstances that lead individuals to call an airport their temporary or long-term home.

People who have lived in airports for years

There have been several people who have lived in airports for extended periods, some even for years. Here is a list of some of these people and their stories:

Mehran Karimi Nasseri ("Sir Alfred")

Perhaps the most famous person to live in an airport, Nasseri, an Iranian refugee, lived in Paris' Charles de Gaulle Airport for 18 years, from 1988 to 2006. He inspired the movie "The Terminal." Nasseri arrived at the airport without proper documentation and was trapped. He couldn't board a plane without a passport, and if he left the airport, he would be arrested for lacking ID papers. He eventually left the airport in 2006 due to declining health and passed away in November 2022.

São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport, Brazil

An unidentified person has been living in this airport for approximately 24-25 years (circa 2000-present). They had frequent conflicts at home and seem to suffer from psychological issues. They occasionally leave the airport but continue to reside there.

Beijing Capital International Airport, China

A person has been living in this airport for approximately 16-17 years (circa 2008-present). They wanted to smoke and drink without bothering their family and had difficulty finding work. They occasionally leave the airport but continue to reside there.

Edward Snowden

NSA leaker Edward Snowden spent more than a month in Moscow's Sheremetyevo Airport in 2013 before being granted asylum in Russia. Snowden's U.S. passport was revoked while he was on a flight to Moscow, stranding him in the airport.

Sanjay Shah

Sanjay Shah, a British overseas citizen, travelled to England in May 2004 but was refused entry by immigration officials as he intended to immigrate, not just stay for a few months. Sent back to Kenya, Shah feared leaving the airport as he had given up his Kenyan citizenship. He finally left after residing in the airport for just over a year when British officials granted him full citizenship.

These stories highlight the unique circumstances that lead people to live in airports for extended periods, often due to visa issues, homelessness, or personal reasons.

Reasons for living in an airport

Airports are typically seen as transient spaces, with travellers passing through on their way to their final destination. However, for some people, airports become their home, with stays ranging from weeks to several years. While it may seem like an unusual choice, there are several reasons why someone might choose to live in an airport or be forced to do so due to unforeseen circumstances.

Homelessness and Seeking Refuge

One of the primary reasons people end up living in airports is due to homelessness. Airports provide basic amenities such as food, water, bathrooms, and shelter, making them a viable option for those who cannot afford or access other accommodations. In the United States and Europe, major airports have often functioned as informal homeless shelters, especially during harsh weather conditions. Additionally, some individuals with mental health issues or facing family problems may seek refuge in airports, as seen in the case of Denis Luiz de Souza, who lived in São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport, Brazil, for over 17 years due to psychological issues and conflicts at home.

Visa, Passport, and Asylum Issues

Another common reason for extended stays in airports is visa, passport, or asylum-related issues. Travellers may find themselves stranded in an airport due to missing or expired documentation, as in the case of Mehran Karimi Nasseri, who lived in Charles de Gaulle Airport, France, for nearly 18 years after losing his refugee status papers. Similarly, individuals seeking asylum may have to wait in an airport while their claims are processed, such as the Kurdish refugee family who stayed at Sheremetyevo International Airport, Moscow, for nearly two months.

Protesting and Political Reasons

In some instances, people choose to live in airports as a form of protest. For example, an individual may be refused re-entry into their home country and decide to protest this decision by residing in the airport. Additionally, those with politically sensitive backgrounds or seeking political asylum may opt to stay in an airport while awaiting a resolution to their situation.

Convenience and Comfort

While rare, some individuals may choose to live in an airport due to personal preferences or convenience. For example, an individual may prefer the comfort and amenities of an airport over traditional living arrangements. This could include access to various dining options, shopping, and other airport services.

Overall, while living in an airport is not a typical choice, various factors can lead individuals to seek residence within these transit hubs, often as a last resort or due to unforeseen circumstances.

How to avoid detection when living in an airport

Living in an airport is not an ideal situation, but sometimes life throws curveballs and you may find yourself in such a predicament. Here are some tips to avoid detection and sustain yourself while living in an airport:

Blending In

The key to avoiding detection is to blend in with the crowd. Airports are bustling places with thousands of passengers passing through each day. Keep a low profile and try to look like a traveller by carrying a bag and walking with purpose. Avoid drawing attention to yourself by keeping to yourself and refraining from interacting with airport staff unless necessary.

Food and Water

Airports provide ample opportunities to access food and water. You can rely on the kindness of strangers to buy you meals, or you can seek out donations from charitable organisations or individuals. Vending machines and food courts are also options, but these require money, so plan accordingly.

Rest and Hygiene

When it comes to resting, airports offer various spots to catch some sleep. Comfortable seats, benches, and quiet corners can be found throughout the terminals. To maintain your hygiene, use the airport's bathroom facilities for washing and changing. If you require a more thorough cleaning, you may have to venture outside the airport to a nearby public shower facility.

Entertainment and Amenities

Airports often have various amenities to keep you occupied, such as bookstores, shops, and internet access. These can help pass the time and provide some entertainment while you're living in the airport.

Legal Obligations

Lastly, be mindful of the legal implications. While some airports may allow individuals to stay as long as they follow the rules, others may have regulations prohibiting loitering or sleeping in certain areas. Be respectful of the airport's rules and the people working there, and understand your rights and obligations to avoid any legal troubles.

Remember, living in an airport is only a temporary solution, and it's important to work towards finding a more permanent and stable living situation.

The homeless taking refuge in airports

Airports across the world have become shelters for those with nowhere else to go. While the exact number of homeless people living in airports is unknown, it is clear that this phenomenon is not uncommon. Many airports, such as those in Chicago, Cleveland, Palm Springs, Buenos Aires, and South Florida, have seen an increase in homeless residents, especially during the colder months.

There are several reasons why homeless people may choose to take refuge in airports. Firstly, airports offer basic amenities necessary for survival, including food, water, bathrooms, and shelter. Additionally, airports are often accessible by public transportation and are open early in the morning or late at night, providing a safe and warm place to stay. The large size of airport terminals also allows people to blend in with the crowds and avoid detection for extended periods.

The story of Mehran Karimi Nasseri, who lived in Paris' Charles de Gaulle Airport for 17-18 years, is one of the most well-known examples of long-term residency in an airport. Nasseri, an Iranian refugee, lost his refugee status papers while en route to England and was unable to enter France or board his plane. As his case was passed between officials in England, France, and Belgium, he remained in the airport, inspiring the movie "The Terminal."

While some homeless people may choose to stay in airports voluntarily due to the perceived benefits, others find themselves in an involuntary extended stay due to missed connections, cancelled flights, or financial difficulties. For example, an Estonian named Roman Trofimov was stranded at Manila International Airport for over 100 days during the COVID-19 pandemic when Philippine authorities stopped issuing entry visas.

Despite the benefits that airports may provide to homeless individuals, officials in various cities have begun cracking down on the practice. Airports such as LaGuardia in New York, Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C., and Honolulu International Airport have implemented closing hours for people without tickets, citing complaints from travellers and employees. However, these actions have been criticized by homelessness activists who argue that it further criminalizes homelessness.

To address the issue, airport officials in some cities, such as Los Angeles, have deployed crisis intervention teams to connect homeless individuals with housing and other services. Additionally, airports like O'Hare International Airport in Chicago have partnered with organizations to provide outreach and assistance to homeless individuals.

How to maintain personal hygiene when living in an airport

Although it may seem unusual, some people end up living in airports for weeks, months, or even years. The reasons for this vary, but often it is due to protesting, asylum seeking, or issues with visas and passports.

Living in an airport for an extended period of time can pose challenges when it comes to maintaining personal hygiene. Here are some tips to help you stay clean and healthy during your time living in an airport:

Basic Hygiene:

• Practice good personal hygiene to keep yourself healthy and to be courteous to other travellers.
• Keep your breath fresh by using gum, breath mints, or travel-sized mouthwash, especially after eating a strong-flavoured meal.
• Wear clean clothing, including socks, and apply a moderate amount of deodorant or perfume.

Hand Hygiene:

• Carry a travel-sized bottle of hand sanitiser with at least 60% alcohol to use when soap and water are not readily available.
• Wash your hands with soap and water before eating and after using the washroom.
• Use unscented hand sanitiser to be respectful of other travellers who may be sensitive to strong scents.

Body Care:

• Airplane washrooms may not be ideal for a thorough cleaning, so carry a water-free facial cleanser to wipe your face, neck, wrists, and forearms when you need to freshen up.
• Use a moisturising hand cream to prevent dry skin from frequent hand washing.
• Disinfect surfaces around you with antibacterial wipes, especially in the airplane washrooms and other high-touch areas.

Respecting Others:

• Avoid activities such as cleaning your ears with cotton swabs, using dental floss, or clipping your fingernails in public spaces. Perform these activities in the privacy of the airplane washroom or before your arrival at the airport.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing, sneezing, or sniffling with tissues, and dispose of them properly.

Additional Tips:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, as airplane cabins can be dry. Avoid alcoholic, caffeinated, or sugary beverages that can contribute to dehydration.
• Use nasal spray and eye drops to moisturise your mucous membranes, which can help trap germs and bacteria.
• Get enough sleep to support your immune system. Pack an eye mask, comfortable clothing, or a travel pillow to enhance your sleep quality.

By following these tips, you can maintain your personal hygiene and create a healthier environment for yourself and those around you during your time living in an airport.

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