A recent study by Upgraded Points, a company specializing in credit cards and travel rewards, has identified the top U.S. airports for travelers based on departure times, flight delays, and amenities. The study ranked the 50 busiest airports in the country, providing valuable insights for those who prefer to fly early in the morning or late at night.
Top Airports for Early Morning Travel
For early risers, the study highlighted Cleveland-Hopkins International Airport (CLE), Kansas City International Airport (MCI), and Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) as the best options. These airports are praised for their minimal delays and high number of departures before 8 a.m., making them ideal for passengers who prefer to start their journey early.
Challenges for Early Morning Travelers
On the flip side, Miami International Airport (MIA), Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) were identified as less favorable for early morning flights. These airports face challenges such as limited morning flights, higher delay percentages, and a lack of amenities like coffee shops or bars open early in the day.
Best Airports for Nighttime Flights
Interestingly, some airports that struggle with early morning flights excel for nighttime travel. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) both rank among the best for late-night travelers. Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) also stands out, with 22 percent of its scheduled flights departing after 8 p.m. and a notable number of airport bars for passengers to enjoy.
Challenges for Late-Night Travelers
Conversely, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) was rated as the worst airport for late-night travel, with nearly 78 percent of its departures experiencing delays. San Antonio International Airport (SAT) and Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) also ranked poorly for nighttime travel due to a limited number of flights departing after 8 p.m., making them less convenient for late-night passengers.
Conclusion
The Upgraded Points study provides valuable insights for travelers seeking the best airports to suit their departure time preferences. Whether you’re an early bird looking for efficient morning departures or a night owl needing late-night flights, understanding these rankings can help you make informed travel decisions and choose the most suitable airport for your needs.