Exploring the shortcomings and challenges faced by travelers, we unveil the 7 worst US airports for connecting flights.
In order to identify the 6 worst airports in the United States for connecting flights, we conducted an extensive analysis utilizing reports from reputable sources such as Finance Buzz, Frommer’s, and Johnny Jet.
Additionally, we referenced data studies from Finance Buzz and Upgraded Points, which evaluated 50 of the busiest airports in the US based on several criteria including on-time flight performance, airport amenities, nearby accommodations, shopping options, and average delay durations. The airports were ranked in ascending order of their scores, with higher scores indicating a higher degree of subpar service.
Top 6 US Airports with Poor Connecting Flights
Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)
IATA Code: MSP
Rating: 44.7
Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport is ranked as the 15th busiest airport in the United States and the 27th busiest globally by US News.
It comprises two terminals connected via a skyway, with a combined total of 131 gates.
The average connection delay at this airport exceeds one hour, and the minimum time required to walk from one terminal to another is approximately 28 minutes.
Additionally, the average number of shops or restaurants available per gate is 0.88.
Sacramento International Airport
IATA Code: SMF
Rating: 47.2
Sacramento International Airport features two terminals catering to domestic and international flights, totaling 32 gates.
Approximately 22% of flights experience delays, with an average delay duration of 58 minutes. While shopping and dining amenities are available throughout the airport, there are no on-site hotels to accommodate passengers during extended layovers.
The average wait time for security or other services at the airport is 17 minutes.
Salt Lake City International Airport
IATA Code: SLC
Rating: 48.31
Salt Lake City International Airport features two terminals and a total of 83 gates. Serving an annual passenger volume exceeding 25 million, it serves as a key hub for Delta Air Lines and is designated as a priority city for American Airlines.
The airport experiences an average delay rate of 19% with an average delay duration of 69 minutes.
Additionally, lounges are dispersed throughout the airport, and there are no on-site hotels to accommodate passengers with prolonged layovers.
George Bush Intercontinental Airport
IATA Code: IAH
Rating: 48.85
George Bush Intercontinental Airport is frequently cited as one of the least favorable airports in the United States due to prolonged wait times and overall inconvenience.
The airport comprises five terminals and boasts 161 gates.
Approximately 24% of all departing flights from the airport encounter delays, with an average delay duration of 73.41 minutes.
Traveling between terminals within the airport typically requires 26 minutes. Criticisms from various review platforms include inadequate traffic management around the airport and insufficient planning to accommodate travelers.
George Bush Intercontinental Airport occupies the eighth position on our compilation of the worst airports in the United States for connecting flights.
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Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport
IATA Code: ATL
Rating: 49.69
Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, featuring two terminals and 192 gates, holds the distinction of being the busiest airport in the United States, accommodating over 100 million passengers annually.
Approximately 23% of these travelers encounter delays, with an average delay duration of 62 minutes.
Moving between gates entails an average walking time of 27 minutes. The airport has received criticism for its perceived lack of maintenance and staffing.
Additionally, many reviewers have expressed dissatisfaction with the inadequate traffic management outside the airport premises.
Southwest Florida International Airport
IATA Code: RSW
Rating: 54.05
Southwest Florida International Airport operates from a single terminal with 28 gates.
The airport’s amenities, including shops and dining options, are limited, with only 1.5 options available per mile.
Departing flights from the airport encounter a delay rate of 28%, with an average delay of 83 minutes, while arrivals experience a delay rate of 31%, with an average delay of 67 minutes. Insufficient charging stations, lounges, and on-site hotels are notable shortcomings.
Additionally, over 11% of all departing flights from the airport are susceptible to cancellations, potentially exacerbating travel disruptions.
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