North American Airports See Rise in Passenger Satisfaction Scores

Long lines, delays, and record passenger numbers often characterize the air travel experience in North America, but a new study suggests that flyers are increasingly satisfied with their airport experiences. According to the 2025 North America Airport Satisfaction Study from data analysts J.D. Power, overall passenger satisfaction scores have marginally increased, with facilities across the board rising 10 points from 609 to 619 on a 1,000-point scale.

Key Takeaways:

• The 2025 North America Airport Satisfaction Study found a 10-point increase in overall passenger satisfaction scores, from 609 to 619 on a 1,000-point scale.
• The rise was attributed to improvements in food, beverage, and retail options, as well as ease of travel through the airport.
• The Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport was the top-scoring airport in the mega category, with a score of 660.
• John Wayne Airport, Orange County, was the top-scoring airport in the large category.
• Indianapolis International Airport topped the medium category.
• J.D. Power's survey found that traveler priorities have shifted, with food, beverage, and retail options becoming one of the most important factors in determining a "good" airport.
• Airports that incorporate local food trends and flavor, creating a genuine sense of location, can improve overall satisfaction scores by an average of 190 points.
• Newark Liberty International Airport, despite improving overall, still holds the bottom spot in the mega category, with a score of 565.
• The study notes that airport improvement projects can make a significant impact on traveler satisfaction, even if they take time to complete.

Statistics:

• 10-point increase in overall passenger satisfaction scores from 609 to 619 on a 1,000-point scale.
• 21 out of 27 airports in the large category saw an increase in scores compared to 2024.
• Average 190-point increase in satisfaction scores for airports with local food trends and flavor.
• 30,439 traveler surveys collected from July 2024 through to July 2025.
• 660 score for Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport in the mega category.
• 565 score for Newark Liberty International Airport in the mega category.

Sources:

• J.D. Power, 2025 North America Airport Satisfaction Study
• CNN, "New study reveals increased satisfaction with North American airports, even with long lines and delays" by Francesca Street, CNN