World's Best Airports

Most airports could probably be considered average in terms of over quality. Design details and cool architecture might improve travelers' overall impression of a place, but it is usually usability and convenience that are true measures of airport quality. Some terminals seem to be designed for designers to appreciate, not for people to use. No passenger wants to have to walk too far to get to their gate, or worse, have trouble figuring out just exactly where their gate is.

Every year, Skytrax awards the top airports in the world. Their awards are based on user surveys and expert research. The best airports are able to win in both the design and usability categories. Here are some of the top airports in the world for 2008:

1. Hong Kong International is a favorite amongst travelers and experts alike. It has earned the number one position in the annual survey 7 out of the past 10 years. The airport has something for everyone. There is convenient transport to the city, well laid-out terminals, and tasteful, not over-the-top, duty-free shopping areas. And there are eating choices for every budget range. The airport does not focus on upscale users at the expense of everyone else.

2. Singapore's Changi airport earned the runner-up position this year. Its blend of classy, futuristic design and usability have earned it the top honors in the past (most recently in 2006).

3. Seoul Incheon tied for second last year. Construction of a new, state-of-the-art terminal caused a bit of user frustration this year, but now that it is finished, expect Incheon's stock to rise amongst passengers once again.

4. Kuala Lumpur 4th place rank gives East Asia the top 4 airports in the world.

5. Munich's airport finished fifth, earning top European honors.

No US airports made it into the top 10 this year. Perhaps American fliers are more demanding. Or perhaps no stateside airport has the quality to compete with the world's best.

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