How Flyers Experience These Airports
Air travel begins and ends at the airport. While some airports in the U.S. leave a lasting impression for all the right reasons, others become a source of frustration for countless travelers. With millions of people passing through U.S. airports each year, the differences between the best and worst become increasingly hard to ignore. Let's start with 10 airports that many passengers regret visiting.
1. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
Newark greets travelers with delay-prone runways and a maze of aging terminals. Outdated signage sends even frequent fliers wandering in circles. Also, long security lines test your patience, and once you're inside, food choices are few and far between.
2. LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
LaGuardia’s sleek upgrades mask a familiar chaos beneath the surface. Congested terminals remain packed during peak hours, and frequent delays test even the most seasoned travelers. Despite its facelift, this airport still lands near the bottom in customer satisfaction.
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3. Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)
This airport delivers tight quarters and minimal breathing room, especially when crowds surge. Gate areas feel more like waiting pens, and shopping or dining options are slim pickings. Add frequent security chokepoints, and this compact airport quickly turns into a stressful travel gauntlet.
Chicago Midway International Airport Tour - Is it Better than O’Hare? by Khiz & Eesa
4. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
At LAX, the traffic crawls. Also, the signs are confusing, and the construction never ends. Between grumpy staff and grimy restrooms, even Hollywood’s glamour can’t polish this chaotic travel hub. Terminal changes are endless, but clarity hasn’t caught up.
5. Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
PHL suffers from the travel trifecta: decay, delay, and disappointment. Outdated terminals lack both charm and comfort, while inconsistent cleanliness leaves travelers second-guessing every seat. Combined with mediocre food, it's no surprise that many passengers rank this airport poorly.
6. Miami International Airport (MIA)
Touching down in Miami often means bracing for a marathon. Immigration lines crawl, and multilingual announcements blur into background noise. Baggage delays and missing luggage add more friction, and indifferent service leaves travelers feeling stranded long before they reach the beach.
7. Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)
Despite its tropical charm, HNL can feel stuck in time. High humidity here means passengers sweat it out pre-flight. Also, power outlets are rare finds, and slow inter-terminal connections make tight layovers a gamble. Though renovations are underway, paradise still needs polishing.
8. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
Though some consider JFK iconic, getting around it is a test of stamina. While its disjointed terminals don’t play well together, ground transportation costs as much as a Broadway show. Painfully long security lines only add to the airport’s infamous reputation.
9. Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
Cramped corridors and a maze of construction zones are often the first sights that greet customers coming to BOS. If you're arriving late, don’t expect much, as dining and shopping vanish after dark. Plus, traffic, especially during rush hours, can be a stressful event.
10. Denver International Airport (DEN)
At first sight, Denver’s vastness appears impressive. But the excitement disappears once you realize how far you have to walk. The automated train frequently experiences delays, while winter weather regularly disrupts flight schedules. And hold your luggage tightly because claiming lost baggage can be frustrating.
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Let’s switch gears. Up next are the airports that consistently deliver enjoyable experiences.
1. Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)
MSP makes flying feel less like a chore and more like a well-run event. The baggage claim is swift, security lines move fast, and the terminal feels calm even when it’s packed. You’ll find its layout so smooth you might forget it’s an airport.
Cory W. Watts from Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America on Wikimedia
2. Tampa International Airport (TPA)
From the moment you enter TPA, everything just flows. A fast, silent monorail and terminals that actually feel spacious are evidence of what modern air travel should look like. Plus, it has top-tier restaurants and one of the friendliest staff teams in the country.
3. Indianapolis International Airport (IND)
IND is proof that an airport doesn’t have to be huge to be excellent. Its modern design is wide open and light-filled, TSA lines are short even during holidays, and local artwork brings unexpected charm to your wait. Bonus: Clean restrooms and on-time flights.
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4. Dallas Love Field (DAL)
Stylish and refreshingly easy to traverse, Dallas Love Field is one of America’s best airports. Gates are all within easy reach, and the food scene punches above its weight. Southwest runs the show here—this means service that keeps things running right on time.
Dramatic changes could soon arrive at Dallas Love Field to accommodate passenger growth by CBS TEXAS
5. Portland International Airport (PDX)
Local shops and live music make PDX a destination in its own right, and free Wi-Fi and generous power outlets keep tech travelers connected to the world. The airport’s clean facilities and easy baggage claim tie it all together like a well-packed carry-on.
6. Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
You’ll feel the difference at SLC the moment you land. Sleek, airy terminals welcome you with panoramic mountain views that never get old. Clear signage guides you effortlessly between gates, and flights tend to be impressively punctual and available.
The New Salt Lake City International Airport Orientation by SLCAirport
7. Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW)
DTW’s McNamara Terminal is a hidden gem—think a futuristic light tunnel and a tram that feels like a theme park ride. Dining options range from grab-and-go to gourmet, and connections are a breeze thanks to the efficiency.
8. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
This airport is a pleasant surprise in the desert. First-time fliers love how intuitive everything feels—signage is on point, and terminals are clean and calm. Cultural touches, such as art displays, make it feel like a community space.
9. San Diego International Airport (SAN)
SAN’s layout is refreshingly simple, and its panoramic views of the bay provide a postcard moment right from the start. Additionally, staff go out of their way to make sure your trip ends on a high note.
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10. Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
In recent years, Dulles has quietly leveled up its offerings. Several upgrades have streamlined the terminal flow and made the airtrains and mobile lounges efficient and enjoyable. The quick customs process and global flavors available at every corner cater to international travelers.
