To frequent traveler Peter Bubriski, too many airports remind him of shopping malls. "So many airports all seem to be selling the same thing," says the communications consultant from Williamstown, Mass.

So Bubriski says he was surprised and delighted to discover original artwork at his home airport, New York's Albany International --with price tags attached. Bubriski has bought two pieces of art from airport's gallery exhibitions, including a large abstract painting now on his bedroom wall.

"It just grew on me, and I had to have it," says Bubriski, who also bought a miniature still-life painting that hangs near his desk. "I think this is a great way to invest in and support the local arts."

It's a win-win for artists and art lovers at airports elsewhere as well. Some airports, including those in Miami, Philadelphia and Los Angeles, put potential buyers in touch with artists exhibiting work at the airport without taking any commission. "I'd rather see the entire income from the sale passed along to the artists," says Leah Douglas, director of the exhibitions program at Philadelphia International Airport.

Though other airports do take a commission, it's usually less than traditional galleries, where the standard can be 50% to 60%. The Albany airport recently raised its commission to 35%, but the money is used to help defray the cost of insuring, lighting and promoting the regional artwork, says Sharon Bates, director of the airport's Arts & Culture program.

Since 1995, a non-profit commission has overseen the art program at Florida's Jacksonville International Airport, which collects a 20% commission. "We don't sell that much," says coordinator Cabeth Cornelius. "Last year we brought in about $6,000. But many artists who show their work here often end up with a gallery show or pick up another gallery that wants to present their work."