The 10 Most Stressful Airports in the U.S

Traveling can be an exciting adventure, but navigating through airports often adds a layer of stress that travelers would rather avoid. From long security lines to crowded terminals, certain airports are notorious for elevating stress levels. A recent study has identified the top 10 most stressful airports in the United States based on various factors such as passenger numbers, distance from commercial areas, and overall satisfaction scores. Knowing which airports are the most stressful can help travelers better prepare for their journeys.

Key Takeaways

• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport tops the list as the most stressful airport in the U.S.
• Chicago O’Hare International Airport is known for its long security lines and crowded terminals.
• Los Angeles International Airport ranks high due to its busy environment and frequent delays.
• Denver International Airport, despite its large size, struggles with high passenger numbers and infrastructure issues.
• John F. Kennedy International Airport is often criticized for its rude staff and uncomfortable environment.

1. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Overview

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is the biggest airport in Georgia, serving more than 100 million travelers in 2023. It has been ranked as one of the busiest airports in the world for many years. The airport is a major hub for more than 20 domestic and international carriers, with Delta being its primary airline.

Passenger Volume

As the busiest airport in the country, ATL handles around 45.4 million passengers each year, flying to 187 destinations. The airport is preparing for an increase of more than 6 percent in Memorial Day weekend travelers compared to last year.

Stress Factors

The checkpoint screening process is a significant stress factor, especially since the airport is updating its technology. The checkpoints in Terminal B are closed until June 21, adding to the congestion and stress levels for travelers. However, the updates will not take place on weekends or Memorial Day.

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Consumer Satisfaction

Despite the high stress levels, ATL has one of the highest Flightradar24 scores for consumer satisfaction. Passengers have noted the numerous amenities and options available, which help to alleviate some of the stress associated with traveling through such a busy airport.

2. Chicago O’Hare International Airport

Overview

Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) in Illinois is ranked the most stressful airport in America this year. It is a large hub for American Airlines and United Airlines, which is headquartered in Chicago. The airport has more than 40 airlines and gives its travelers the choice to book a non-stop flight to more than 200 destinations worldwide.

Passenger Traffic

CNN ranked Chicago O’Hare International as one of the top 10 busiest airports in the world and racked in nearly 74 million passengers in 2023. The airport served 33.1 million passengers in 2022 and flies to a whopping 249 destinations.

Parking and Accessibility

Our findings have revealed that Chicago O’Hare International Airport in Illinois is the most stress-inducing, largely due to the high car parking charge and the number of flight destination options. With the second most expensive car parking charge for a week at over $283, it ranks almost 10 points higher than any other airport. It’s about an hour-long drive or 45-minute train ride to the airport from downtown Chicago.

3. Los Angeles International Airport

Los Angeles International Airport, commonly known as LAX, is one of the busiest airports in the U.S., with 32.3 million passengers in 2022. LAX scored 47 on the 2024 USA Stressful Airport Index, making it the fifth most stressful airport in the country. The airport serves 189 destinations, which is convenient for travelers but also contributes to its high stress levels due to the notorious Los Angeles traffic jams.

Passenger Volume

In 2022, LAX handled 32.3 million passengers, making it one of the busiest airports in the U.S.

Stress Index Score

LAX scored 47 on the 2024 USA Stressful Airport Index, ranking it as the fifth most stressful airport in the country.

Destinations

The airport serves 189 destinations, adding to its convenience but also to the stress due to high traffic.

Traffic and Accessibility

Los Angeles’ notorious traffic jams make getting to and from LAX particularly challenging, adding to the overall stress of traveling through this airport.

Satisfaction Ratings

LAX has one of the lowest Flightradar24 satisfaction ratings for its immigration and customs processes, as well as its food options, tied with New York’s JFK.

4. Denver International Airport

Denver International Airport in Colorado is one of the largest airports in the US, covering a whopping 53 square miles. More than 69 million passengers travel through the airport annually, with an average of 213,254 passengers per day in 2023. The airport hosts over 25 airlines and flies to 219 destinations, making it the third busiest in the country.

Challenges in Getting Downtown

One of the downsides of Denver International Airport is the difficulty in getting downtown. Travelers can drive about 45 minutes to Denver’s city center or take the airport rail to Denver Union Station in 37 minutes.

Delays and Weather Issues

Gate holdings, taxi delays, and bad weather are common issues. Nearly 700 flights were delayed due to thunderstorms, adding to the stress of traveling through this airport.

Parking Costs

Thankfully, parking at DEN is relatively cheap, costing around $54 a week.

5. John F. Kennedy International Airport

John F. Kennedy International Airport, known to travelers as JFK, is one of the biggest airports in New York. More than 70 airlines operate out of JFK, and Bloomberg reported that 62.5 million passengers flew out of the airport last year. This Memorial Day weekend, fliers may not be pleased that they must deal with the $19 billion redevelopment construction that is currently happening at JFK.

Passenger Volume

A March 2024 Google Review indicated that JFK has about 50,000 travelers fly out of the airport every day. Hopper’s Memorial Day Outlook estimated that 645,899 travelers will fly out from May 23 to May 28 this year, meaning that the total number of passengers will be more than two times its usual daily amount.

Destinations and Airlines

Flying to 193 destinations and serving 26.9 million passengers in 2022, JFK ranked second as the most stressful airport in the U.S. on the index for its expensive parking and difficulty in getting to. The airport’s Flightradar24 rating is one of the lowest on the index due to poor WiFi, TSA, and immigration and customs experience.

6. San Francisco International Airport

Proximity to City Center

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is conveniently located near the city center, making it easily accessible for travelers. This proximity contributes to its high satisfaction rating on Flightradar24.

Passenger Volume

SFO handles a significant passenger volume, with 20.4 million travelers passing through annually. This high traffic can contribute to the stress levels experienced by passengers.

Parking Rates

One of the major stressors at SFO is the expensive parking rates. Parking can cost around $175 for a week, which adds a financial burden to travelers.

Flight Destinations

The airport offers flights to 142 destinations, providing a wide range of options for travelers but also contributing to the complexity and busyness of the airport.

7. Miami International Airport

Passenger Volume

Miami International Airport (MIA) is the biggest airport in Florida, handling more than 52 million passengers in 2023. With 23.7 million passengers flying to 192 destinations, MIA ranked sixth for the most stressful airport in the nation.

Satisfaction Scores

The Florida airport earned one of the lower satisfaction scores on Flightradar24 of 78%, with passengers citing inadequate WiFi, TSA, and lounges. This lower satisfaction score contributes significantly to the stress levels experienced by travelers.

Location and Accessibility

The airport is about a 30-minute drive from Miami’s South Beach. If you’re driving your car, expect to pay around $175 for a week of parking.

Tips for Travelers

WSVN 7 News provided multiple tips to help travelers fly out of Miami International successfully, including using ride-sharing services and completing airline check-in online.

8. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) in Texas serves around 73 million customers each year, making it one of the busiest airports in the world for passenger traffic. More than 189,000 customers travel through DFW each day, contributing to its high-stress environment.

Passenger Volume

In 2022, DFW saw 33.7 million passengers and flies to 258 destinations, adding to the stress and chaos of the traveler experience.

Traveler Experience

Despite the congestion, the airport has a high rating of 84% on Flightradar24, with passengers noting that it’s easy to get to and pass through TSA. However, the airport remains crowded and congested.

Amenities

DFW offers many lounges and food options, providing some relief to stressed travelers.

9. Orlando International Airport

Passenger Volume

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the busiest airports in the U.S., with more than 57 million passengers passing through its gates last year. On average, over 158,000 passengers navigate the airport daily.

Popular Destination

MCO is a major hub for travelers heading to popular attractions like Disney World and Universal Studios. The airport serves over 40 airlines, making it a key gateway for both domestic and international flights.

Stress Factors

Despite its high satisfaction rating of 82% on Flightradar24, the airport earned a score of 43 on the USA Stressful Airport Index. Factors contributing to this stress include its high passenger volume and pricey parking options.

Distance from City Center

Located 14.47 miles from downtown Orlando, the airport is approximately a 20-minute drive from the city center, adding to the overall travel time for many passengers.

10. Newark Liberty International Airport

Overview

Newark Liberty International Airport is not as big as JFK, but it is still a busy airport for travelers nationwide. More than 30 airlines, including United, Delta, and Alaska Airlines, operate out of the New Jersey airport. As of March 2024, according to a traffic report completed by Port Authority NY NJ, more than four million passengers fly out of Newark Liberty every month.

Passenger Experience

With the lowest Flightradar24 rating of 71%, EWR earned the spot for the eighth most stressful airport in the U.S. Passenger reviews noted that while recent renovations helped improve the airport, its WiFi, TSA, and food options were lacking. Although in New Jersey, the airport also serves the New York City area, making it a trek to get to.

Stress Factors

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) has a 69.8% percentage of stressed reviews. The airport’s WiFi, TSA, and food options are commonly cited as areas needing improvement.

Conclusion

Navigating through airports can be a daunting experience, especially at some of the busiest and most stressful ones in the United States. From long security lines to overcrowded terminals, these airports can test the patience of even the most seasoned travelers. However, being aware of which airports are likely to cause the most stress can help you better prepare for your journey. Whether it’s planning extra time for check-in or finding ways to relax before your flight, a little preparation can go a long way in reducing travel-related stress. Remember, the goal is to make your travel experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible, even when passing through the most hectic airports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport considered stressful?

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is considered stressful due to its high passenger volume, long security lines, and frequent flight delays.

What makes Chicago O’Hare International Airport one of the most stressful airports?

Chicago O’Hare International Airport is known for its complex layout, frequent weather-related delays, and high passenger traffic, making it one of the most stressful airports.

Why is Los Angeles International Airport on the list of most stressful airports?

Los Angeles International Airport is often cited as stressful because of its heavy traffic congestion, long security lines, and ongoing construction projects.

What factors contribute to the stress at Denver International Airport?

Denver International Airport’s stress factors include its large size, high passenger volume, and infrastructure that struggles to handle the number of travelers.

Why is John F. Kennedy International Airport considered stressful for travelers?

John F. Kennedy International Airport is considered stressful due to its busy international traffic, long security wait times, and frequent flight delays.

What makes Newark Liberty International Airport one of the most stressful airports in the U.S.?

Newark Liberty International Airport is known for its congestion, frequent delays, and complicated layout, contributing to its high-stress levels for travelers.