A new study has ranked the world’s most stressful airports, just as Americans prepare to travel for the holiday season. Conducted by Australian travel insurance company iSelect, the study analyzed 50 major airports around the globe based on factors such as departure delays, canceled flights, security checks, and baggage claim issues.
According to the study, Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey takes the top spot as the “most stressful” airport in the world, with a score of 18. 46 out of 100. The study notes that the airport has the worst check-in score on the list and the second-worst score for ease of getting to the airport. Additionally, Newark Liberty has an average departure delay time of 21. 40 minutes and scored poorly in baggage retrieval.
Despite ongoing upgrades and redevelopment, Newark Liberty continues to be a hot spot for travel stress. Construction on a new AirTrain system has begun, with an estimated cost of $3. 5 billion. This new system is said to replace the existing AirTrain, which has become outdated and over capacity. According to the airport’s website, the new system will be able to accommodate the airport’s rapid growth and provide a better experience for travelers.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has expressed his commitment to modernizing Newark Airport, calling it the “front door to our region. ” With the ongoing transformation of Terminal A and the new AirTrain system, the airport aims to provide a world-class experience for travelers.
In second place on the “most stressful” list is Humberto Delgado Airport in Lisbon, Portugal, with a score of 22. 39. Manchester Airport in the United Kingdom comes in third with a score of 23. 10. Both airports have low scores in baggage claim and security check wait times.
Rounding out the top five are John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York City and Chicago O’Hare International Airport. JFK was also ranked low in J. D. Power’s annual airport satisfaction survey, which looked at factors such as ease of travel, airport trust, and food and retail options. Newark Airport came in last place in this survey, reflecting a year of ground delays and flight cancellations.
iSelect, the company behind the study, created the “comprehensive list” to help travelers identify and prepare for stress-free travel. As Americans continue to travel during the holiday season, it’s important to be aware of the potential stressors at different airports. By choosing an airport with a good track record for on-time departures and efficient security and baggage processes, travelers can minimize their stress levels and have a smoother travel experience.