The Business Traveler North America Award Winners 2023: Airports

Best Private Terminal

Banyan Air Service at Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport

Banyan Air Service / Photo: Courtesy of Banyan Air Service

For more than four decades, Banyan Air Service has been a cornerstone of excellence in private aviation. Located at Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport in Florida, this 24-hour, full-service, fixed-base operation offers a wide range of aviation services, including maintenance, interior modifications, avionics services, aircraft parts, aircraft sales and management.

Visitors to Banyan can explore its lively central lobby, the Banyan Pilot Shop and the Jet Runway Café—a delightful aviation-themed dining experience.

Banyan is the top-ranked U.S. FBO in the Professional Pilot PRASE Survey due to its commitment to excellence and its Reimbursable Services Program, allowing business jets to clear customs conveniently, even off-hours, for a seamless travel experience.

North America’s Best Airport

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Hartsfield- Jackson Atlanta International Airport / Photo: Courtesy of PANTHER MEDIA GMBH/Alamy Stock Photo

The world’s busiest airport—serving 275,000 passengers daily and more than 100 million passengers in a single year—ATL reigns as North America’s best for the second consecutive year.

Its close partnership with Delta and its relentless efficiency continues to make it a passenger favorite.

In 2022, it ranked second-best for on-time departures— with only 16 percent of flights delayed— and received the Airport Service Quality Award for Best Airport at Arrivals Globally, beating out nearly 400 airports in 95 countries.

ATL is a major economic force with a local annual impact of $66 billion. It is also among the world’s best airports for foodies, ranking second worldwide, with 121 restaurants serving 38 cuisines in its terminals.

World’s Best Airport

Singapore Changi International Airport

Changi Airport / Photo: Nathaniel Yeo/Unsplash

Singapore Changi International Airport is not just a stop-over—it’s a destination in its own right. It’s the home base for Singapore Airlines, this year’s World’s Best Airline.
One of its standout features is the breathtaking Jewel, a magnificent architectural creation by Moshe Safdie. This nature-themed lifestyle hub boasts indoor forests, cascading waterfalls and the Canopy Park under a colossal glass dome.

The star of the show is the Rain Vortex—a seven-story indoor waterfall that defies description. Regular sound-and-light performances make it a truly magical experience, enhanced by the enchanting Forest Valley, an indoor haven with more than 61,000 trees and shrubs.

Entertainment at Changi knows no bounds. Whether you’re in the mood for open-air decks, strolling through the world’s first airport butterfly garden, enjoying a movie at the free 24-hour theater, or taking a dip in a rooftop pool with a view of the runways, Changi has it all. Retail therapy is equally impressive, with nearly 300 stores.

For those who love the outdoors, the Changi Airport Connector is an 11,000-foot scenic path that links the airport to East Coast Park, offering a fantastic opportunity for walking, jogging or cycling.

Delve into local culture and history by exploring the Changi Precinct, where the Changi Chapel and Museum provides insights into the area’s World War II history. Traditional peranakan shops, local cuisine and Singapore’s rich heritage await.

Changi Airport doesn’t just cater to airlines and travelers—it’s a place for special moments, too. It’s a unique wedding venue, offering diverse options for ceremonies and banquets.

Additionally, airport tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of the airport, giving visitors a unique perspective on its operations.

World’s Best Airline Lounge

The Pier, Hong Kong International Airport

The Pier, Hong Kong International Airport / Photo: Courtesy of Carmen Chan

Cathay Pacific’s The Pier, Business and First Lounge was conceived by Studioilse under Ilse Crawford’s guidance. The lounge seeks to create a haven where travelers can unwind and focus on their well-being. The design draws inspiration from the bustling streets of Hong Kong, perfectly aligning with Cathay Pacific’s Life Well Travelled ethos.

One of its unique offerings is Cathay Pacific’s exclusive fragrance, a first for the airline. This signature scent, featuring lavender, bamboo, green tea and jasmine notes, welcomes passengers with a comforting and recognizable aroma, ensuring an immediate sense of belonging.

Inside the First Class Lounge, The Retreat is an oasis of comfort, providing eight day suites with runway views, daybeds and privacy curtains. The Dining Room showcases an exceptional seasonal à la carte menu blending Asian and international influences, signature noodles, specialty desserts and an extensive wine and beverage selection. The Pier sets a new standard in luxury and sensory experience for airline lounges.

World’s Best Independent Lounge

Centurion Lounge, Hong Kong International Airport

Centurion Lounge, Hong Kong / Photo: Courtesy of Centurion Lounge

In the heart of Hong Kong International Airport lies the American Express Centurion Lounge, an oasis accessible to Amex cardholders.

This lounge embodies luxury with its central location, meeting rooms and open-air space. But what truly sets it apart is the exceptional variety of hot food options. Unlike its sister lounges in the U.S., the Centurion in Hong Kong lounge offers multiple hot food stations, ensuring a diverse culinary experience.

Cocktail enthusiasts will revel in the handcrafted concoctions. A Lavazza espresso machine is also on hand to provide fresh cappuccinos for those needing a pick-me-up.
In addition, two shower suites are available to enhance the passenger’s journey.

North America’s Best Independent Lounge

Centurion Lounge, New York JFK

Centurion Lounge, New York JFK / Photo: Courtesy of Centurion Lounge

This 15,000-square-foot space is the largest Centurion Lounge in the country. Guests have a variety of seating options, from comfortable tables to seats along the expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, perfect for plane-watching.

The culinary offerings are nothing short of remarkable.

A hidden gem within this lounge is The “1850” Speakeasy Bar. Reminiscent of the 1920s, this bar offers specialty cocktails not found in the main area.

The lounge also houses the Equinox Body Lab, featuring activities and sessions, including meditation rooms, as well as innovative “boots” designed to enhance blood flow, ensuring relaxation before or after a long flight. With self-serve options and staff assistance, this spa is a wellness sanctuary.