The Thanksgiving holiday saw a record-breaking 3.1 million travelers pass through TSA checkpoints, signaling a surge in air travel. As the Christmas and holiday season approaches, a new analysis reveals which airport is statistically the most likely to induce travel-related stress.
A comprehensive study examined 50 major airports worldwide, meticulously analyzing factors like departure delays, flight cancellations, security wait times, and baggage claim efficiency. The results pinpointed Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey as the most stressful, earning a score of 18.46 out of 100.
Newark’s ranking stems from consistently poor performance in key areas. The airport received particularly low marks for the ease of getting to the facility and experienced an average departure delay of over 21 minutes. Baggage retrieval also proved problematic, ranking among the worst in the study.
Currently, Newark is undergoing a massive $3.5 billion redevelopment of its AirTrain system, replacing a decades-old infrastructure struggling to keep pace with growing passenger numbers. Officials emphasize the modernization is crucial for providing a world-class airport experience.
Humberto Delgado Airport in Lisbon, Portugal, followed closely behind Newark, securing the second-most stressful airport title with a score of 22.39. Manchester Airport in the United Kingdom rounded out the top three, plagued by exceptionally low scores for baggage claim (69%) and security check efficiency (69%).
Two major U.S. hubs also made the list: John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City and Chicago O'Hare International Airport, landing in fourth and fifth place respectively. These airports consistently face high passenger volumes and potential for disruption.
These findings echo the results of J.D. Power’s annual airport satisfaction survey, which similarly ranked Newark last among “mega” U.S. airports. The survey considered a broad range of factors, including ease of travel, staff helpfulness, and overall airport facilities.
Newark’s low ranking in the J.D. Power survey reflects a year marked by significant ground delays and widespread flight cancellations, impacting traveler satisfaction. The combination of these factors paints a clear picture of the challenges faced by passengers traveling through Newark.
The study aimed to provide travelers with valuable insights, allowing them to anticipate potential stressors and prepare accordingly for smoother journeys. Understanding these airport-specific challenges can empower travelers to make informed decisions and mitigate potential disruptions.
