Foodtruck in a new role

Airport cellphone waiting areas are starting to look like fast-food drive-ins.

A number of airports are allowing food trucks to set up shop in or near cellphone lots where people wait to pick up passengers. The trucks, which often showcase regional foods, cater to travelers, those picking them up and airport employees.

The trucks let airports shed their reputation for having unoriginal and tasteless food options.

“A huge trend in airports is being able to showcase the food and drink of a region because the airport is the front door of the community, where travelers get their first impression,” says Deborah McElroy, interim president of Airports Council International-North America. “It really does help reflect the flavor of the community.”