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- calendar_today October 31, 2026
J.D. Power Names Top North American Airports for 2026
The latest J.D. Power 2026 study has named Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport as the best mega airport in North America for the third consecutive year. The annual airport rankings highlight facilities that combine efficient travel, passenger amenities, and overall satisfaction among travelers. This year’s study, based on over 24,000 surveys, assessed major airports across the United States and Canada.
Midwest and South Shine in Airport Rankings
While airports in New York and Los Angeles are among the nation’s most recognized, neither claimed the top spot for America’s best mega airport. Instead, Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport led the mega airport category with a score of 684 out of 1,000, according to J.D. Power’s comprehensive review.
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport followed in second place among mega airports with 663 points, and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport rounded out the top three with 642 points.
Other Leading Airports by Size
The J.D. Power study divided airports into mega, large, and medium categories based on annual passenger volumes: mega airports serve at least 33 million travelers per year, large airports handle 10 million to 32.9 million, and medium airports accommodate 4.5 million to 9.9 million travelers yearly.
- Tampa International Airport was awarded the top spot among large airports with a score of 715, followed by Portland International Airport (708) and Dallas Love Field (698).
- Charleston International Airport led in the medium category with 712 points, ahead of Ontario International Airport (705) and Indianapolis International Airport (695).
Features and Improvements Drive Satisfaction
According to travel industry expert Gary Leff, Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport stands out for its proximity to both downtown areas and convenient light rail access. Passengers flying through Minneapolis benefit from ample amenities without leaving security, although long walks between gates are still reported as manageable.
Tampa International Airport was praised for its organization and connectivity, including free Wi-Fi and the SkyConnect people mover that links the main terminal with economy parking and the rental car center. Charleston’s straightforward design makes it easy for travelers to move quickly through the airport.
Airport Projects Boost Passenger Experience
J.D. Power’s managing director, Michael Taylor, noted that passenger satisfaction has increased across all airport size categories. Recent and ongoing capital improvement projects at top-performing airports are contributing to higher satisfaction scores among travelers.
"Efforts are finally starting to pay off in the form of higher overall passenger satisfaction scores," Taylor stated.
The study identified clear signage and easy navigation as key drivers of passenger satisfaction. Improvements to food, beverage, and retail programs also contributed to higher scores this year, increasing eight points over the previous year.
Expert Advice and Cautions
Despite upgraded facilities in cities like New York, Gary Leff cautioned that eye-catching renovations do not always translate into easier navigation. He pointed to New York LaGuardia’s Central Terminal as a modernized space that remains tough for passengers to traverse.
Leff also praised airports like San Francisco International Airport and National Airport in Washington, D.C. for their proximity to city centers and straightforward layouts, helping travelers get to their destinations efficiently.
About the Study
The J.D. Power North America Airport Satisfaction Study, now in its 21st year, measures passenger experiences in seven areas: ease of travel, trust in the airport, terminal facilities, staff, trip-to-airport and trip-from-airport experience, and food, beverage, and retail. The 2026 study is based on feedback from 24,710 U.S. and Canadian residents who traveled through at least one major airport in North America.
Source: foxnews.com.
