Miserable airport experiences are becoming more commonplace, but a new study from Casino of the Kings reveals that some airports really are actually more chaotic than others. The study analyzed data including average daily delays and cancellations, passenger satisfaction scores, on-time performance, mishandled baggage claims and more, the study ranked U.S. airports based on levels of operational disruption and travel inefficiency.
At the top of the list is Tampa International Airport, which scored a perfect 100 on the chaos meter. Over half of its flights—53%—are delayed, and more than 8% of scheduled flights are canceled due to logistical challenges.
Newark Liberty isn’t far behind, with a disruption score of 90. On any given day, 41% of flights run late, and it racks up two mishandled bags per 100,000 passengers. If you’ve lost a suitcase here, you're not alone.
At number three is Orlando International. It may be home to the happiest place on Earth, but the airport is certainly not that. With 46% delays and 5% cancellations, it also holds the lowest passenger satisfaction score of all airports surveyed: a brutal seven.
Dallas Fort Worth, one of the busiest airports in the U.S., ranks fourth. It has seen a staggering 189 flights canceled a day—10% of its daily traffic.
Rounding out the top five is NYC’s JFK, where 35% of flights are delayed and baggage chaos reigns supreme, averaging 3 lost bags per 100,000 travelers.
It's no wonder travel anxiety is on the rise, so if you’re traveling through any of these airports, give yourself extra time, extra snacks and patience.
Most chaotic airports in the U.S.
- Tampa International Airport
- Newark Liberty International Airport
- Orlando International Airport
- Dallas Fort Worth International Airport
- John F. Kennedy International Airport
- Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport
- O'Hare International Airport
- Harry Reid International Airport
- Logan International Airport
- Miami International Airport