Aviation Experts Name Their Least Favourite International Airports: JFK, CDG, and Changi Surprises

A recent discussion among The Independent’s travel desk revealed a list of the world’s least favourite airports. The experts cited issues ranging from confusing layouts to frustrating border control processes. This analysis provides key insights for airlines and airport operators globally.

UK and North American Hubs Face Scrutiny

Travel correspondent Simon Calder singled out Manchester Airport Terminal 3 as his least liked UK hub. He noted the terminal is now "heaving" with budget airline passengers, primarily Ryanair, after other carriers moved to Terminal 2. The ageing complex is struggling to handle the increased passenger volume, leading to an unenjoyable experience.

Manchester Airport is addressing these concerns. A multi-million-pound revamp of Terminal 3 is currently underway. This project is part of the larger £1.3 billion transformation plan. The refurbishment will add 40% more seating capacity and new retail and dining options. The first new facilities are expected to open to passengers in early 2026. This upgrade is essential for improving the overall airport passenger experience.

Expanding the scope worldwide, Calder described New York JFK Airport as "nowhere more miserable." His primary complaint focuses on the arrival experience. He cited absurdly long queues for departure and grim clearance at US Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

While real-time data can show short waits, CBP processing times at JFK remain highly variable. Peak international arrival periods can still see average waits exceeding two hours for non-US citizens. A recent 2026 report placed JFK's average wait time at 23.58 minutes, higher than many other major US global aviation hubs.

European and Mediterranean Challenges

In continental Europe, Calder actively avoids connecting at Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Madrid Barajas airports. He criticised their confusing multiplicity of terminals. He also noted the gruelling public transport links at both major capitals. Both airports are frequently ranked poorly for poor wayfinding and long transit times between terminals. Operational issues, including air traffic control strikes and weather, further compound delays at these major European gateways.

Senior travel writer Natalie Wilson named Václav Havel Airport Prague Terminal 1 as her most disliked. The terminal, which handles Non-Schengen flights, has an unusual process. Passengers pass through passport control first, then face standard security checks at the departure gate. This means liquids must be surrendered at the gate security point.

Wilson also noted a "painful process" during a trip in October 2025. This coincided with the initial rollout of the EU Entry/Exit System (EES). The EES replaces manual passport stamps with biometric registration for third-country travellers. The launch caused significant bottlenecks, with wait times initially spiking to 60-90 minutes due to kiosk malfunctions. This highlights the challenges of implementing new regulatory technology at busy international airports.

Travel writer Amelia Neath highlighted the struggles of Greek airports. She specifically recalled a flight from Rhodes in 2023. She cited hard-to-follow signs and a terminal too small for the large tourist volumes. This overcrowding created an overwhelming experience.

The Controversial Changi and Lacklustre Geneva

Global travel editor Annabel Grossman offered a controversial take on Singapore Changi airport. Changi is often considered the world's best airport, known for its extensive facilities. These include a rooftop cactus garden and a massive indoor waterfall. However, Grossman found the extravagance "unnecessary and OTT" (over-the-top).

She explained a pressure to use the attractions instead of simply heading to the gate. This view challenges the trend of airports becoming destinations themselves. It prioritises comfortable and functional design over luxury amenities.

Conversely, US travel editor Ted Thornhill found the terminal experience at Geneva Airport (GVA) "close to woeful." He noted a lack of glamour compared to the upscale city it serves. Thornhill pointed to inadequate seating, few power points, and lacklustre dining options. This highlights the need for consistent infrastructure investment across all major hubs.

As the aviation industry moves forward, passenger experience remains a key focus. Addressing issues like overcrowded airport terminals and inefficient border processes is critical. The ongoing terminal refurbishment projects at hubs like Manchester are positive steps. Such efforts will improve operational flow and passenger comfort in the coming years.

Read more: Which airport do you think is the worst in the world?

Stay ahead of the airline industry with commercial aviation news from flying.flights.