Airport satisfaction in North America has risen significantly this year despite a near-record number of people flying in the United States, according to the latest J.D. Power study.
Travellers gave higher ratings to airports, with newer terminals and gates contributing to the improvement. The annual survey found that satisfaction has increased for the third consecutive year.
“Overall, travelers are happier with what they are seeing in most airports,” said Mike Taylor, managing director of travel, hospitality and retail at J.D. Power.
The study was based on responses from more than 24,000 travellers. Airports including New York’s John F. Kennedy, Kansas City International and Pittsburgh International have opened, or are building, new facilities to handle growing passenger numbers.
Many of the new terminals and gates are larger and feature more natural light and upgraded amenities. The projects can cost billions of dollars.
“You have to spend at least a billion to impress people,” Mr Taylor said.
Minneapolis-Saint Paul International received the highest rating among the largest airports, which handle more than 33 million passengers a year.
Tampa International ranked first among airports serving between 10 million and 32.9 million passengers annually. Charleston International in South Carolina was rated the best medium-sized airport, serving between 4.5 million and 9.9 million passengers a year.
