The best and worst U.S. airports
If you’ve ever had a bad experience traveling through Chicago’s Midway International Airport, you’re not alone: According to a new study published by The Points Guy, it ranks as the worst airport in the country.
That’s thanks to a lack of amenities — it only has one lounge, for instance — on top of long wait lines and a “less-than-desirable commute,” making it the worst of the 50 busiest airports in the U.S., according to the study.
Overall, calculations were based on 34 different variables, including: flight delays, cancellations, ride-hailing prices, restaurants, lounges and security wait times.
The study ranked San Diego International Airport as the best airport in the U.S. because of its ample amenities, a great record of timeliness and the best score for commute time.
The Best:
- 1. San Diego International Airport
- 2. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
- 3. Portland (Oregon) International Airport
- 4. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
- 5. Sacramento International Airport
The Worst
- 46. Southwest Florida International Airport
- 47. Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport
- 48. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport
- 49. Orlando International Airport
- 50. Chicago Midway International Airport
“Frequent travelers aren’t likely to move to be near the best airports,” said Scott Mayerowitz, executive news director of The Points Guy. “However, knowing the pros and cons of each airport is a helpful guide when planning your trip. If you know the airport you’re traveling through lacks amenities, pack a meal. Leave early if commute times are unpredictable, and try to schedule connecting flights through more-reliable airports.”