Once a symbol of travel misery, the newly revamped New York airport takes home top honors
In a stunning turnaround, LaGuardia Airport has been crowned the Best U.S. Airport in Forbes Travel Guide’s first-ever Verified Air Travel Awards. This accolade comes just a decade after the airport was widely derided as one of the worst in the country.
The awards, based on an invitation-only survey of 5,000 frequent travelers in the hospitality industry, recognize excellence across various categories, including airlines, airports, lounges, and airport dining.
LaGuardia’s triumph is a testament to its remarkable transformation. Following an $8 billion renovation project, the airport has shed its outdated image and emerged as a modern, efficient, and even enjoyable travel hub.
“LaGuardia’s complete overhaul has elevated the passenger experience from abysmal to exceptional,” noted one survey respondent. “The new terminals are bright, spacious, and easy to navigate, with a wide range of dining and shopping options.”
This sentiment is echoed by Forbes Travel Guide, which praised the airport’s “thoughtful design, impressive art installations, and abundance of natural light.”
While LaGuardia celebrated its domestic win, Singapore Changi Airport took home the title of Best International Airport, renowned for its lush gardens, luxurious amenities, and seamless passenger flow.
In the airline categories, Emirates was named the Best International Airline, while Delta Air Lines secured the Best U.S. Airline award.
The Forbes Travel Guide Verified Air Travel Awards are poised to become a benchmark in the industry, providing travelers with valuable insights and recognizing those who are setting new standards for excellence in the skies and on the ground. For LaGuardia, this recognition marks a significant milestone in its journey from “worst to first,” proving that even the most beleaguered airports can achieve a remarkable comeback.
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Photo: LaGuardia Airport