Airport rankings can have a significant impact on a traveler’s experience, especially when it comes to flight delays and cancellations. A recent report on the best airports in the world has highlighted the facilities that excel in keeping operations prompt and flights on time.
AirHelp, a passenger assistance company, evaluated 250 airports across 68 countries using its own flight database and feedback from passengers between June 2024 and May 2025. The airports were scored out of 10 points based on three factors: on-time performance, airport customer service, and the availability of food and shops.
According to the report, the best airport in the world for on-time operations and customer service is Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in South Africa, with a score of 8. 57. Only one airport from the United States made it to the global top 10, with Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) ranking at No. 8 with a score of 8. 29.
On the other hand, Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New Jersey was ranked the worst in the United States, with a score of 7. 25 and a global ranking of 188. This airport faced numerous operational challenges in the past year, including air traffic control short-staffing, technical issues, and runway construction, resulting in weeks of cancellations and delays. This incident highlighted the importance of choosing an airport with a solid record of on-time departures.
AirHelp also identified the top 10 airports in the U. S. , with hubs from both coasts, the Midwest, and even Hawaii making the list. Travelers can increase their chances of avoiding operational headaches by booking flights to or from one of these top-rated facilities.
The top 10 airports in the U. S.
1. Salt Lake City International Airport: 8. 29
2. Los Angeles International Airport: 8. 09
3. Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport: 8. 07
4. Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport: 7. 97
5. Portland International Airport: 7. 96
6. Nashville International Airport: 7. 93
7. Chicago Midway International Airport: 7. 93
8. Austin Bergstrom International Airport: 7. 9
9. Houston William P. Hobby International Airport: 7. 9
10. Honolulu Daniel K Inouye International Airport: 7.
In conclusion, Cape Town International Airport in South Africa has been named the best airport in the world for on-time operations and customer service. While only one U. S. airport made it to the global top 10, there are several top-rated options within the country that can help travelers avoid operational issues during their flights.