The Business Traveler U.S. Award Winners 2022: Airports

This Business Traveler U.S. Award category recognizes the best airports around the world, focusing on North American and international hubs. We considered factors that enhance the overall travel experience before take-off and landing, including airport lounges. We also recognized airport amenities that made layovers more enjoyable.

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse, London Heathrow

Best Airport Lounge in the World

Eggs Benedict for breakfast at Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse, London Heathrow / Photo: Courtesy of Enrique Perrella

Completed in 2006, the impressive Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse in London Heathrow remains relevant thanks to its exquisite and modern open-space design inspired by the city of London and the British Isles. The lounge’s many amenities include a pre-flight workout room with Peloton bikes, a full set of private showers, an à la carte waiter service throughout the lounge, and a full-service brasserie. The acclaimed eggs Benedict for breakfast, succulent Lucky Saint beer-battered fish and chips for lunch, Clubhouse Signature Cookie for dessert, and carefully crafted cocktails are musts when visiting the lounge. As Richard Branson puts it, “Virgin Atlantic is famous for its outstanding airport lounges and Upper Class suites. The one in Heathrow is my favorite.”

Private Suite LAX

Best Private Terminal in North America

The Private Suite LAX / Photo: Courtesy of The Private Suite

Private terminals in the U.S. have become a must for travelers seeking a more exclusive and lavish experience when flying through congested airports. The Private Suite at LAX has become a favorite of celebrities, politicians and high-end travelers seeking to bypass crowds and lengthy TSA lines. Located off-site from the airport’s terminals, it offers each traveling party private rooms with open-air terraces, en suite baths, a kitchenette, chef-prepared meals, a TSA checkpoint, dedicated customs and immigration services on arrival, and a private chauffeur who takes passengers straight to the aircraft. The price tag for this exclusive service is $4,650, all-inclusive for a party of four travelers. For members, the rate is discounted to $3,250 per party.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Best North American Airport
Best North American Airport for Amenities

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport / Photo: Sean Pavone Alamy Stock Photo

Flying through Atlanta (ATL) is rarely a hectic experience. The airport’s management has conquered the art of rapidly and efficiently funneling more than 275,000 passengers daily through its two terminals spread over seven concourses, handling over 2,700 arrivals and departures. ATL has been named the most efficient airport in the U.S. for 18 years. Its 300 concession outlets—which include 114 food and beverage locations, 90 retail and convenience outlets, three duty-free stores and 56 service outlets—allow its visitors to enjoy their transit through the complex.

Singapore Changi

Best Airport in the World
Best International Airport for Amenities

Singapore Changi Airport / Photo: Devansh Bhikajee/Unsplash

For eight consecutive years, Singapore Changi had been recognized as the world’s best airport. Handling more than 65 million passengers yearly before the pandemic, Singapore Changi’s beautiful terminals continue to enchant visitors with their endless amenities, impressive architecture, luminous halls and swift transit experiences. Customers claim that the airport is a “must-see destination” when visiting Singapore, adding that “the entire place is spotless, from the carpets to the ceilings.” Home to Singapore Airlines, this airport continues to top the charts in passenger experience.