Whether you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, the airport experience can significantly affect your journey. It’s not just about the flight; the time spent waiting, the quality of the facilities, and the efficiency of the airport services can either make or break your travel experience. With the world gradually reopening, knowing which airports to avoid can save you time, stress, and unexpected hurdles.
This list is based on real-world data, expert interviews, and traveler surveys, focusing on aspects such as wait times, cleanliness, customer service, and overall efficiency. We’re here to shed light on the airports that can potentially make your travel a nightmare. Prepare yourself for unexpected surprises as we delve into the list of the world’s most challenging airports.
1. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Los Angeles International Airport, better known as LAX, is often criticized for its overcrowded terminals, long security lines, and frequent flight delays. Despite being the second busiest airport in the United States, it seems to struggle with maintaining efficient operations and providing satisfactory customer service. Travelers often find themselves stressed and frustrated, trying to navigate through the chaos.
As travel restrictions loosen and passenger numbers increase, these issues are becoming more prominent. Experts suggest that unless significant changes are made to improve efficiency and customer service, the problems at LAX could escalate, causing more delays and inconvenience for travelers.
2. Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)
Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport might be the gateway to the romantic city of Paris, but many travelers find nothing romantic about their experiences here. Complaints about this airport range from poor signage and complicated layouts to unfriendly staff and unsanitary conditions. Add to this the frequent strikes, and you have an airport that can turn your travel into a nightmare.
With France being one of the most visited countries in the world, the problems at CDG are a matter of concern. As international travel increases, the airport’s issues could lead to increased traveler stress and dissatisfaction, affecting France’s tourism industry.
3. Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL)
Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport is notorious for its overcrowding, frequent power outages, and poor infrastructure. The airport has often been criticized for its lack of cleanliness, inadequate seating, and slow service. All these factors make it one of the most challenging airports for travelers.
As the Philippines is gaining popularity as a tourist destination, the current state of its primary airport could deter potential visitors. Experts suggest that significant upgrades and improvements are needed to cope with the increasing passenger numbers and to prevent further deterioration of the traveler experience.
4. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
Newark Liberty International Airport has a reputation for its frequent flight delays, unclean facilities, and poor customer service. Despite being one of the busiest airports in the US, it struggles to maintain efficient operations and deliver a satisfactory traveler experience.
As air travel continues to rebound, the problems at Newark Liberty are becoming more evident. Unless there are significant improvements, these issues could lead to more traveler frustration and stress, affecting the airport’s reputation and passenger satisfaction.
5. London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
London Heathrow Airport, one of the busiest airports globally, is often criticized for its long immigration lines, frequent flight delays, and complicated layout. Despite its modern facilities, many travelers find navigating through its five terminals a challenging task.
As international travel picks up, Heathrow’s issues could result in increased wait times and stress for travelers. Experts warn that unless there are improvements in efficiency and customer service, these problems could tarnish Heathrow’s reputation as a leading global airport.
6. Moscow Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO)
Moscow Sheremetyevo International Airport, despite being the busiest airport in Russia, is often cited for its lack of cleanliness, poor customer service, and confusing signage. These issues, along with its often unpredictable security procedures, make it a challenging airport for travelers.
With Russia hosting several major international events, the problems at Sheremetyevo could affect the country’s image as a tourist destination. Experts suggest that improvements in cleanliness, customer service, and signage are needed to create a better traveler experience.
7. Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
While Beijing Capital International Airport is praised for its architectural design, many travelers find the airport experience less than desirable. Complaints include long lines, poor signage, and lack of English-speaking staff. The airport’s vast size also makes it challenging to navigate, especially for first-time visitors.
As China continues to grow as a global powerhouse, the issues at Beijing Capital International could impact its international reputation. Experts advise that improvements in customer service, signage, and efficiency are necessary to enhance the traveler experience and maintain the airport’s status as a major global hub.
As a mom of three busy boys, I know how chaotic life can get — but I’ve learned that it’s possible to create a beautiful, cozy home even with kids running around. That’s why I started Cultivated Comfort — to share practical tips, simple systems, and a little encouragement for parents like me who want to make their home feel warm, inviting, and effortlessly stylish. Whether it’s managing toy chaos, streamlining everyday routines, or finding little moments of calm, I’m here to help you simplify your space and create a sense of comfort.
But home is just part of the story. I’m also passionate about seeing the world and creating beautiful meals to share with the people I love. Through Cultivated Comfort, I share my journey of balancing motherhood with building a home that feels rich and peaceful — and finding joy in exploring new places and flavors along the way.
