Readers reveal their favorite airports around the world

In a recent survey conducted on March 28, 2025, by The Economist, readers were invited to share their favorite airports from around the globe. The inquiry sought to gather personal anecdotes and opinions from aviation enthusiasts and travelers about their experiences in various terminals. Many contributors highlighted small airports in unique locations, generating heartfelt descriptions of their charm and functionality. These submissions included mentions of airports from places such as the Cook Islands, Orkney, and Nepal, demonstrating the diverse opinions regarding what makes an airport special and beautiful. Such a rich collection of responses not only reflects travel diversity but also showcases personal connections travelers form with specific terminals. The survey followed a recent publication that discussed the world's most beautiful airports, suggesting that many notable ones are situated in India. This editorial aimed to spark a broader conversation about airport aesthetics and functionality, encouraging readers to weigh in with their own favorites. The response demonstrated that not only the major international airports capture the hearts of travelers but also smaller, lesser-known terminals that often provide unique experiences. The readers' responses may influence perceptions and future discussions about airport design, suggesting a growing interest in how airports contribute to the overall travel experience. As travel continues to evolve, the feedback from readers indicates a healthy appetite for discussions surrounding airports as critical components of the journey. Readers appreciate both the grandeur of large, sophisticated terminals and the quaint charm of smaller ones. This variety in preferences serves to highlight how different aspects of airport design—such as architecture, accessibility, and customer service—play significant roles in shaping traveler experiences. This rich exchange emphasizes the importance of understanding travel preferences and how they align with the evolving landscape of global aviation. The published letters inviting readers to share their airport experiences may lead to future publications that delve deeper into the reasons behind these choices. By engaging with personal narratives, readers may benefit from a broader appreciation of the airport experience, beyond merely serving as transit points, and begin to recognize them as destinations in themselves. The ongoing exchange of experiences about airports helps build a community of informed travelers who cherish different aspects of air travel, ultimately fostering a deeper connection between the individuals and the places they visit.