Despite the fact that mega-hubs all around the world experienced a decline in traffic this spring, years of investment in the passenger experience are still paying off for international passengers. The top hubs in the world compete with one another for the best lounge facilities, on-site attractions like movie theaters, swimming pools, and botanical gardens, and simple security and immigration procedures that simplify long-haul travel. No one was surprised this year by the popularity of airports in Asia and the Middle East, with readers applauding them for their incredibly efficient terminals that look like they belong in a science-fiction utopia.
T+L invites readers to weigh in on travel experiences across the world every year for our World’s Best Awards poll. Readers are asked to express their ideas on the best hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more.
Airports were assessed by readers based on access, check-in/security, dining/drinking, retail, and design.
Readers said that the world’s top airports generally stayed the same from the previous year. Four of them are in Asia, including Seoul’s fourth and fifth airports, Incheon International and Hong Kong International, respectively. One respondent, obviously a fan of K-beauty, gushed, “I purposely arrange layovers via Incheon so I have the chance to do some skin-care shopping and enjoy the excellent bars and restaurants.”
The No. 2 Hamad International, which retained its position as last year’s runner-up, was also one of the favorites this year. Travelers bound for Africa, India, and Southeast Asia frequently pause at Qatar Airways’ Doha hub. I’m no aristocracy, yet I was treated royally every step of the way, one reader remarked, adding that it was a delight. The lounges received acclaim from many voters, one of whom singled out the “large” shopping possibilities as a plus.
According to readers, No. 7 Zurich improved three ranks from the previous year due to its superior management and customer service. One reader remarked, “The signage and directions are so well written, and everything is spotless – it always blows me away. And who could forget the cute and humorous tiny cow sounds on the air tram? Copenhagen Airport, which came in at No. 9, also reached the top 10 this year: “It’s by far the most tranquil airport I’ve ever been to. One voter remarked, “Quiet, effective, and well-lit, it’s a terrific welcome to the nation.
Nevertheless, improvements made at Singapore Changi Airport in recent years have assured that it will continue to hold the top positions. Discover what makes it so unique in readers’ thoughts and which other airports join the list of the top international airports by reading on.
