The aviation scene has crowned a new frontrunner: Hamad International Airport in Doha has dethroned Singapore’s Changi Airport as the world’s best airport in 2024, according to the esteemed air transport ratings agency Skytrax. This is Hamad’s third reign at the summit, having previously held the title in 2021 and 2022.
A Distinguished Panel of Judges
Skytrax’s survey gathered the insights of travelers from over 100 nationalities, who meticulously evaluated airport experiences across a wide spectrum of services. Notably, Hamad International Airport emerged not only as the world’s best overall, but also reigned supreme in the realm of airport shopping.
Changi’s Enduring Legacy
Despite surrendering the top spot, Changi Airport remains a beacon of excellence. Having been crowned the world’s best 12 times since the inception of Skytrax rankings, its reputation for exceptional service remains firmly intact. In this year’s iteration, Changi retained the titles of “Best Airport in Asia” and “World’s Best Airport Immigration Service.”
A Trio of Asian Airports in the Spotlight
Joining Hamad and Changi in the top three is South Korea’s Incheon International Airport, which climbed one spot to claim the third position. This prestigious airport was recognized as the “World’s Most Family-Friendly Airport” for 2024.
The Ascent of Japanese Airports
Japan’s aviation industry also made its mark on the rankings. Tokyo’s Haneda Airport soared to fourth place, boasting the accolade of “World’s Cleanest Airport.” Despite being the most heavily trafficked airport on Skytrax’s list, handling 70 million passengers in 2023, it maintained an impeccable level of cleanliness.
The other major international airport in Tokyo, Narita International Airport, secured a place in the top five. Its unwavering commitment to customer service earned it the title of “World’s Best Airport Staff.”
The Skytrax Methodology
The rankings are a testament to the insights gathered from questionnaires completed by airport customers between August 2023 and March 2024. Participants meticulously assessed essential airport services such as check-in efficiency, transfer experiences, immigration clearance, shopping facilities, and departure procedures.
The Top 10 Airports Unveiled
Alongside the top five airports, the Skytrax rankings paint a comprehensive picture of global airport excellence:
- Hamad International Airport
- Singapore Changi Airport
- Incheon International Airport
- Haneda Airport
- Narita International Airport
- Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport
- Dubai International Airport
- Munich International Airport
- Zurich International Airport
- Istanbul International Airport
Data sourced from: cnbc.com
