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 retail, dining, parking and other services reached $54 billion globally, up 21% from 2022.
Netizens chime in
Users on social media were quick to weigh in on the post. Some pointed out that even a 50LPA salary doesn’t necessarily translate to disposable income. “Because 50LPA is still like 20LPA after paying taxes,” one wrote, while another added, “People aren’t satisfied with 50LPA too.” One comment neatly summed up the sentiment, “Same andar ka middle class nhi manta.”
Some users shared that these luxury shops aren’t really targeted at the average Indian traveller. “The target audience are those with generational wealth, enough liquid cash or foreigners on transit flights,” one user explained.
“I don’t think 50L CTC is that much of an in-hand income where these showrooms’ overpriced purchases would feel insignificant,” another user wrote.
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