These U.S. Airports Are Among the Least Satisfying for Travelers in 2026

Some of America’s busiest airports are still leaving travelers less satisfied, according to the latest annual airport study from J.D. Power.

The 2026 North America Airport Satisfaction Study found significant differences among U.S. airports. Newark Liberty International Airport and Chicago O’Hare International Airport tied for the lowest score among mega airports.

Philadelphia International Airport ranked last among large airports, while Cleveland Hopkins International Airport finished last among medium airports.

The Airports at the Bottom

J.D. Power scores airports on a 1,000-point scale and separates them by passenger volume.

• Newark Liberty International Airport: 585
• Chicago O’Hare International Airport: 585
• Philadelphia International Airport: 596
• Cleveland Hopkins International Airport: 597

The study considers factors including terminal facilities, ease of getting around, airport staff, food and retail, and the overall arrival and departure experience. More information is available from J.D. Power.

Philadelphia Is Trying to Change Its Passenger Experience

Philadelphia International Airport has finished at the bottom of the large-airport category for six consecutive years. However, its 2026 score improved by 26 points from the previous year.

The airport is also in the middle of a major modernization program. The nearly $2 billion effort includes terminal improvements, upgraded restrooms, new seating with charging capabilities, better signage and accessibility improvements. More details are available from Philadelphia International Airport.

Cleveland Is Also Investing Heavily

Cleveland Hopkins International Airport faces a similar situation. Its CLEvolution program includes major terminal, parking and transportation improvements.

The airport recently completed a $4.8 million security checkpoint expansion that doubled the number of screening lanes from two to four.

Some Airports Are Scoring Much Higher

The rankings aren’t all bad news. Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport led the mega-airport category with a score of 684.

Tampa International Airport topped the large-airport category with 715, while Charleston International Airport led medium airports with 712.

The rankings provide a snapshot of how travelers currently view their airport experience. Airports undergoing major construction can also face temporary disruption while new facilities are being built.

For travelers, factors such as construction, terminal layout, airline operations, connection times and ground transportation can be just as important as an airport’s overall satisfaction score.

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