Travel in 2023 has been marked by unprecedented crowds and soaring costs, but good news awaits frequent flyers! J.D. Power has unveiled its 2024 North America Airport Satisfaction Study, highlighting the most cherished airports across the continent, as chosen by travelers themselves.

Leading the pack among "mega" airports—which cater to 33 million or more passengers annually—is the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), boasting a stellar score of 671 out of 1,000. Close behind, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) scored 643 and 633, respectively, confirming their status as top destinations for weary travelers.

However, it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. Once again, Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) has landed at the bottom of the mega category rankings for the third consecutive year, with a disappointing score of 552.

In the "large" airport category, John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Orange County, California, triumphed with a superb score of 687. Tampa International Airport (TPA) followed closely, while Kansas City International Airport (MCI) secured third place.

Indianapolis International Airport (IND) shone brightly in the "medium" airport category, ranking first with a score of 687, making it a preferred choice for many travelers.

The J.D. Power rankings are based on responses from a vast pool of 26,290 travelers who completed surveys between August 2023 and July 2024. The scoring system considers seven critical factors: ease of travel, trust in the airport, terminal facilities, staff assistance, departure experience, food and retail opportunities, and the journey to the airport.

Despite the trials of overcrowded terminals and rising prices, J.D. Power’s study reveals that about 60% of travelers reported positive experiences at airports, citing the facilities' role in reducing travel stress. Yet, in a troubling trend, passenger spending in terminals has seen a drop, indicating that rising costs overall are beginning to weigh on traveler budgets, despite an ongoing enthusiasm for travel.

J.D. Power’s Managing Director of Travel, Hospitality, and Retail, Michael Taylor, emphasized this shift: "While demand for air travel remains unwavering across North America, consumers are tightening their wallets when it comes to airport spending."

The following is the complete breakdown of airport rankings:

Mega Airports Rankings:

1. Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) — 671 2. Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) — 643 3. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) — 633 4. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) — 628 5. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) — 623 6. Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) — 611 (tie) 6. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) — 611 (tie) 8. Orlando International Airport (MCO) — 596

Large Airports Rankings:

1. John Wayne Airport (SNA) — 687 2. Tampa International Airport (TPA) — 685 3. Kansas City International Airport (MCI) — 683 4. Dallas Love Field (DAL) — 675 5. Nashville International Airport (BNA) — 668

Medium Airports Rankings:

1. Indianapolis International Airport (IND) — 687 2. Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) — 686 3. Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) — 675 4. Ontario International Airport (ONT) — 672 5. Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) — 670

In conclusion, while travelers may face challenges ahead due to increased costs, the top-rated airports of 2024 are providing hope and convenience to keep flying high. So, the next time you pass through any of these airports, remember—they're among the best in North America!