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Sharon Petersen
09 December, 2024
In the latest Airline Ratings Readers’ Choice Awards, Singapore Changi Airport has claimed the top spot as the world’s best airport. Renowned for its extensive list of attractions, cutting-edge amenities, and world-class shopping, Changi is much more than a transit hub—it’s a destination in its own right.
Singapore Airlines aircraft passing over the expressway while driving towards Changi Airport.
Coming in second was Qatar’s Hamad International Airport, a favourite among global travellers for its cleanliness, exceptional assistance services, and premium facilities. Meanwhile, the third-place position resulted in a tie between two airports on opposite sides of the globe: Tampa International Airport in Florida and Vancouver International Airport in Canada.
Singapore Changi: The Gold Standard
It’s no surprise that Singapore Changi consistently earns its title as the world’s best airport. Far from being merely a transportation hub, Changi offers an experience unlike any other. Highlights include the Jewel complex, home to the iconic Rain Vortex, a butterfly garden, and even a rooftop pool. Changi’s ability to combine cutting-edge features with impeccable service ensures a seamless journey for the 5.5 million passengers that pass through each month. Notably, 68% of survey respondents chose Changi as their top pick.
The Butterfly Garden at Singapore's Changi Airport
Readers shared glowing reviews of their experiences:
“Travelling around the world, the absolute best airport is Singapore Changi. Every category—from customer service to facilities, convenience, security, and efficiency—is unmatched.”
“I was very impressed with Changi Airport. It’s extremely customer-friendly and easy to navigate between terminals. My only regret was not allowing myself more time to explore.”
“From the ease of transferring between terminals to the spacious lounge areas and thoughtful amenities, even children are catered for—not just a few building blocks but proper care and play areas.”
“The gardens are just incredible. My family could spend a whole day at the airport just exploring these alone. They also have playgrounds for kids, a movie theatre and lots of child friendly food options.”
Rooftop swimming pool in Terminal 1 at Singapore Airport
Changi offers something for everyone and makes transits a delight rather than a hassle.
Qatar’s Hamad International: A Beloved Runner-Up
Hamad International Airport in Doha is often described as a five-star hotel disguised as an airport. Renowned for its luxurious lounges, gourmet dining, high-end shopping and one of a kind playground, it also serves as a key hub for Qatar Airways, one of the world’s top airlines. The airport recently installed a new space called The Orchard. The Orchard ecnompasses the central concourse, retail, and dining options at the airport’s North Plaza.
Playground at Doha's Hamad International airport
Readers praised Hamad for its stunning design and ease of navigation:
“A beautiful airport that’s easy to get around, with friendly staff.”
“It’s Hamad International Airport in Doha, hands down—beautiful indoor gardens, excellent dining options, and world-class shopping.”
“Doha’s airport is exceptional. It’s very clean, family-friendly (with playgrounds for children), has so much to explore, and the assistance for my disabled son was second to none. Hands down the best airport.”
The Orchard at Hamad International Airport, Doha
Hamad is a perfect blend of functionality, cleanliness and elegance, making it a worthy runner-up.
A Tale of Two Thirds: Tampa and Vancouver
With only two votes separating them it seemed only fair that the third spot was shared by both Tampa International Airport (TPA) and Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Neither may match Changi or Hamad in size, but their easy to navigate layout and customer efficiency won them this highly regarded third place.
Tampa International Airport
Tampa stands out for its straightforward layout, fast security, and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a favourite for travellers seeking a stress-free experience. Passengers also highlighted the airport’s commitment to sustainability, art and local culture.
Tampa International Airport Florida restaurants and gates
One voter said:
“Without a doubt, Tampa International is my favourite. It’s easy to navigate, has plenty of places to eat and relax, operates smoothly 24/7, and their social media is excellent. TPA all the way!”
Vancouver International Airport
Vancouver International impresses with its stunning design, nods to Canada’s Indigenous heritage, and Pacific Northwest charm. The clean, efficient layout and breathtaking views of surrounding mountains leave a lasting impression.
Vancouver Airport showcases greenery, design and efficiency Vancouver Airport with its stunning scenery as a backdrop. Image: globalnews.ca
Readers shared their love for YVR:
“Vancouver gets my vote. It’s not too big, it’s comfortable and seamless, and the staff are always friendly.”
“It gets no love, but YVR is one of the best North American airports. Excellent transit connections, beautiful Native Canadian art, calming buskers and therapy dogs, clean facilities, and even a waterfall at customs. Plus, those mountain views!”
The Verdict
The Airline Ratings Readers’ Choice Awards showcase airports that excel in making travel memorable. From Changi’s awe-inspiring Rain Vortex to Hamad’s luxurious elegance, Tampa’s effortless efficiency, and Vancouver’s cultural charm, these airports prove that the journey can be just as rewarding as the destination.
In the latest Airline Ratings Readers’ Choice Awards, Singapore Changi Airport has claimed the top spot as the world’s best airport. Renowned for its extensive list of attractions, cutting-edge amenities, and world-class shopping, Changi is much more than a transit hub—it’s a destination in its own right.
Singapore Airlines aircraft passing over the expressway while driving towards Changi Airport.
Coming in second was Qatar’s Hamad International Airport, a favourite among global travellers for its cleanliness, exceptional assistance services, and premium facilities. Meanwhile, the third-place position resulted in a tie between two airports on opposite sides of the globe: Tampa International Airport in Florida and Vancouver International Airport in Canada.
Singapore Changi: The Gold Standard
It’s no surprise that Singapore Changi consistently earns its title as the world’s best airport. Far from being merely a transportation hub, Changi offers an experience unlike any other. Highlights include the Jewel complex, home to the iconic Rain Vortex, a butterfly garden, and even a rooftop pool. Changi’s ability to combine cutting-edge features with impeccable service ensures a seamless journey for the 5.5 million passengers that pass through each month. Notably, 68% of survey respondents chose Changi as their top pick.
The Butterfly Garden at Singapore's Changi Airport
Readers shared glowing reviews of their experiences:
“Travelling around the world, the absolute best airport is Singapore Changi. Every category—from customer service to facilities, convenience, security, and efficiency—is unmatched.”
“I was very impressed with Changi Airport. It’s extremely customer-friendly and easy to navigate between terminals. My only regret was not allowing myself more time to explore.”
“From the ease of transferring between terminals to the spacious lounge areas and thoughtful amenities, even children are catered for—not just a few building blocks but proper care and play areas.”
“The gardens are just incredible. My family could spend a whole day at the airport just exploring these alone. They also have playgrounds for kids, a movie theatre and lots of child friendly food options.”
Rooftop swimming pool in Terminal 1 at Singapore Airport
Changi offers something for everyone and makes transits a delight rather than a hassle.
Qatar’s Hamad International: A Beloved Runner-Up
Hamad International Airport in Doha is often described as a five-star hotel disguised as an airport. Renowned for its luxurious lounges, gourmet dining, high-end shopping and one of a kind playground, it also serves as a key hub for Qatar Airways, one of the world’s top airlines. The airport recently installed a new space called The Orchard. The Orchard ecnompasses the central concourse, retail, and dining options at the airport’s North Plaza.
Playground at Doha's Hamad International airport
Readers praised Hamad for its stunning design and ease of navigation:
“A beautiful airport that’s easy to get around, with friendly staff.”
“It’s Hamad International Airport in Doha, hands down—beautiful indoor gardens, excellent dining options, and world-class shopping.”
“Doha’s airport is exceptional. It’s very clean, family-friendly (with playgrounds for children), has so much to explore, and the assistance for my disabled son was second to none. Hands down the best airport.”
The Orchard at Hamad International Airport, Doha
Hamad is a perfect blend of functionality, cleanliness and elegance, making it a worthy runner-up.
A Tale of Two Thirds: Tampa and Vancouver
With only two votes separating them it seemed only fair that the third spot was shared by both Tampa International Airport (TPA) and Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Neither may match Changi or Hamad in size, but their easy to navigate layout and customer efficiency won them this highly regarded third place.
Tampa International Airport
Tampa stands out for its straightforward layout, fast security, and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a favourite for travellers seeking a stress-free experience. Passengers also highlighted the airport’s commitment to sustainability, art and local culture.
Tampa International Airport Florida restaurants and gates
One voter said:
“Without a doubt, Tampa International is my favourite. It’s easy to navigate, has plenty of places to eat and relax, operates smoothly 24/7, and their social media is excellent. TPA all the way!”
Vancouver International Airport
Vancouver International impresses with its stunning design, nods to Canada’s Indigenous heritage, and Pacific Northwest charm. The clean, efficient layout and breathtaking views of surrounding mountains leave a lasting impression.
Vancouver Airport showcases greenery, design and efficiency Vancouver Airport with its stunning scenery as a backdrop. Image: globalnews.ca
Readers shared their love for YVR:
“Vancouver gets my vote. It’s not too big, it’s comfortable and seamless, and the staff are always friendly.”
“It gets no love, but YVR is one of the best North American airports. Excellent transit connections, beautiful Native Canadian art, calming buskers and therapy dogs, clean facilities, and even a waterfall at customs. Plus, those mountain views!”
The Verdict
The Airline Ratings Readers’ Choice Awards showcase airports that excel in making travel memorable. From Changi’s awe-inspiring Rain Vortex to Hamad’s luxurious elegance, Tampa’s effortless efficiency, and Vancouver’s cultural charm, these airports prove that the journey can be just as rewarding as the destination.
