10 U.S. Airports Travelers Avoid—and 10 They Prefer More Than Ever

Airports can make or break a travel experience. Long security lines, endless delays, poor design, and outdated amenities can turn a simple layover into a nightmare—while efficient, well-designed airports are earning praise and loyalty from frequent flyers. In recent years, passenger satisfaction data, traveler reviews, and airport rankings have revealed a clear divide: some airports consistently frustrate passengers, while others are becoming traveler favorites for their upgrades, convenience, and comfort. Here’s a look at 10 U.S. airports travelers are increasingly avoiding—and 10 that are earning high marks for doing things right.

1. Avoid: Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), New Jersey

Despite a new Terminal A and infrastructure investments, Newark continues to struggle with negative perceptions. Travelers often complain of confusing layouts, frequent delays, and subpar customer service. It frequently ranks low in J.D. Power airport satisfaction studies. Congestion, both on the ground and in the air, causes delays and baggage mishandling concerns. For many, it’s a last resort when flying into the New York metro area.

2. Avoid: LaGuardia Airport (LGA), New York

LaGuardia has undergone a massive facelift in recent years, but its reputation for chaos persists. Historically mocked as outdated and overcrowded, its redevelopment hasn’t fully erased memories of cramped gates and poor signage. Though Terminal B is now modern and sleek, ongoing construction and traffic bottlenecks around the airport continue to frustrate. Travelers often cite high taxi fares and long TSA waits as reasons to avoid it. It remains one of the most complained-about airports in America.

3. Avoid: Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Illinois

O’Hare is a major hub, but that size often works against it. Flight delays are common due to Chicago’s unpredictable weather and complex airspace. Travelers report long walks between terminals, limited seating at gates, and aging facilities in some sections. Despite recent terminal upgrades, it remains overwhelming for many passengers. It consistently lands in the bottom tier of airport satisfaction surveys.

4. Avoid: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), California

LAX is one of the busiest airports in the world—and many say it feels like it. Traffic congestion around the terminals is notorious, and ongoing renovations have created a chaotic passenger experience. Terminals are disjointed, making transfers cumbersome, especially for international travelers. Even locals often try to fly from Burbank or Long Beach instead. While improvements are underway, LAX remains one of the most stressful airports to navigate.

5. Avoid: Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), Pennsylvania

PHL struggles with aging infrastructure, delayed flights, and poor cleanliness scores. Travelers note limited food options, disorganized security lines, and dated design in many terminals. Its layout causes confusion during layovers and connections. While it’s a key regional airport, it rarely earns praise from passengers. Many frequent flyers in the region prefer driving to New York or D.C. airports instead.

6. Avoid: Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), Florida

Though convenient for budget travelers, FLL is criticized for overcrowding, especially during peak season. Gate areas are often packed with minimal seating, and wait times at security checkpoints can be excessive. Delays are frequent, especially for short-haul Caribbean flights. Despite Florida’s tourism appeal, FLL often leaves a sour first impression. Many travelers opt for Miami International when possible.

7. Avoid: Denver International Airport (DEN), Colorado

Denver’s airport is visually unique, but that doesn’t always translate to passenger convenience. The layout, with terminals separated by train, creates long transit times between gates. Travelers report lengthy TSA lines and delays, especially during winter. The airport’s expansion project has caused confusion and increased congestion in common areas. Though a major hub, many flyers find it more frustrating than friendly.

8. Avoid: Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Texas

As one of the largest airports in the world by land area, DFW can be overwhelming. Transfers between terminals require skytrain rides, and flight delays are frequent due to busy air traffic and storm-prone weather. Customer satisfaction is hit-or-miss depending on the terminal. Amenities vary widely across concourses, leading to inconsistent experiences. Some Texas travelers prefer nearby Dallas Love Field for ease of use.

9. Avoid: Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), North Carolina

Charlotte’s role as an American Airlines hub brings heavy traffic, and travelers say the airport hasn’t kept pace with demand. Concourse corridors are often overcrowded, with limited seating and long lines for restrooms and food. Connecting passengers complain about tight transfer times and long walks. Although it’s functional, it lacks the modern appeal of newer airports. Passenger satisfaction lags behind other southeastern U.S. hubs.

10. Avoid: San Francisco International Airport (SFO), California

Despite beautiful architecture and upscale lounges, SFO suffers from chronic weather delays due to fog and coastal winds. Passengers regularly deal with rescheduled or canceled flights. The BART connection is convenient but doesn’t offset frustrations with gate changes and long taxiing times. Travelers often cite inconsistent experiences between terminals. While it has high points, SFO is frequently labeled as “unreliable.”

11. Prefer: Tampa International Airport (TPA), Florida

Tampa consistently earns top marks for passenger satisfaction thanks to its ease of navigation, efficient security, and clean terminals. Its compact layout makes it easy for travelers to get in and out quickly. Amenities include local food vendors, free Wi-Fi, and short wait times—even during busy seasons. Tampa’s curbside drop-off and pickup system is among the best in the U.S. It’s a model for stress-free travel.

12. Prefer: Indianapolis International Airport (IND), Indiana

Regularly ranked as one of the best airports in North America, IND combines cleanliness, design, and efficiency. Travelers love its intuitive layout and fast-moving TSA checkpoints. The airport features locally inspired restaurants and wide open spaces that reduce crowding. Its reputation for being calm and reliable makes it a favorite for both leisure and business travelers. IND shows how a mid-sized airport can do it right.

13. Prefer: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), Arizona

Phoenix has emerged as a top performer due to its modern terminals and updated amenities. Travelers appreciate the Sky Train system, streamlined security, and ample dining options. The airport’s layout minimizes walking distances, and signage is clear and helpful. It’s especially popular with older travelers and families due to its accessibility. PHX is one of the smoothest major airports in the western U.S.

14. Prefer: Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport (MSP), Minnesota

MSP earns rave reviews for its art installations, cleanliness, and diverse food options. The airport is well-designed, with easy transfers between concourses and plenty of seating. Passengers praise the efficiency of its security lines and the friendliness of staff. It also ranks high for overall experience in J.D. Power surveys. Even long layovers are tolerable thanks to comfortable lounges and workspaces.

15. Prefer: Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), Michigan

DTW is a Delta hub that punches well above its reputation. The McNamara Terminal is modern, airy, and easy to navigate. Travelers appreciate the airport’s efficient operations and helpful staff. Amenities like the Express Tram, massage chairs, and upscale dining contribute to a pleasant experience. Many flyers consider it one of the best airports in the Midwest.

16. Prefer: Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), Utah

SLC’s newly completed terminal overhaul has impressed travelers with its sleek design and improved flow. Security lines are short, signage is intuitive, and the new central concourse offers fantastic dining and seating options. It serves as a major Delta hub with smooth connections. The terminal’s natural lighting and mountain views make for a calm travel environment. It’s quickly become a traveler favorite in the West.

17. Prefer: San Diego International Airport (SAN), California

SAN stands out for its convenience and coastal charm. Located just minutes from downtown, it’s one of the most accessible major airports in the U.S. Travelers praise the airport’s small footprint, making arrivals and departures quick and hassle-free. Dining options reflect the city’s vibrant food scene, and security moves swiftly. It’s a top pick for California flyers seeking simplicity.

18. Prefer: Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), Maryland

BWI often flies under the radar, but its efficiency and value make it a crowd-pleaser. It’s the favored airport for low-cost carriers like Southwest, offering affordable flights and short lines. The airport has invested in modern upgrades, improved dining, and faster security screening. Its location makes it convenient for both Baltimore and D.C. area travelers. BWI’s no-fuss layout and reliability have earned it growing praise.

19. Prefer: Nashville International Airport (BNA), Tennessee

With major renovations recently completed, BNA is now one of the South’s rising stars. It boasts new terminals, live music performances, and Nashville-themed restaurants. Travelers love the easy navigation and reduced wait times. It’s a fun, friendly airport that gives a strong first impression of the city. As traffic grows, BNA continues to meet demand without losing charm.

20. Prefer: Palm Beach International Airport (PBI), Florida

For a stress-free Florida airport, PBI is hard to beat. It’s small, easy to navigate, and rarely crowded—even during holiday travel. Security wait times are consistently short, and baggage claim is a breeze. Travelers enjoy the laid-back vibe and local shops. PBI is a hidden gem for those flying into South Florida.

This article was written by a human and edited with AI Assistance