Travel experts at The Independent have revealed their personal picks for the world's most miserable airports, with some surprising entries making the list. The candid assessments come from the newspaper's seasoned travel desk, who shared their least favourite aviation hubs based on recent, frustrating experiences.
UK and European Airports That Miss the Mark
Simon Calder, The Independent's travel correspondent, singled out Manchester Airport's Terminal 3 as his least favourite in the UK. He lamented its transformation from a calm British Airways hub to a overcrowded base for budget carrier Ryanair. "Until the much-needed refurbishment of the ageing complex is complete, there are simply too many of us to make it an enjoyable experience," Calder explained.
On the continent, two major capitals drew his ire. Calder stated he actively avoids connecting through both Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Madrid Barajas airports. He criticised their confusing multi-terminal layouts and gruelling public transport links, arguing that major global cities should deliver far better gateway experiences.
A Global Tour of Aviation Frustration
However, Calder reserved his strongest criticism for an airport across the Atlantic. He declared New York's John F. Kennedy International (JFK) the most miserable airport worldwide. He described absurdly long departure queues and a soul-destroying arrival process dominated by grim encounters with US Customs and Border Protection.
Other travel desk members weighed in with their own bugbears. Senior travel writer Natalie Wilson highlighted Václav Havel Airport Prague Terminal 1, where a recent trip was marred by painful, new Entry/Exit System passport checks and a lack of basic amenities like water fountains post-security.
Travel writer Amelia Neath cited Greek airports, particularly Rhodes, for being overwhelmed by tourist numbers, having poor signage, and offering only overpriced, subpar food and drink options airside.
Controversial Picks and Disappointing Destinations
In a more controversial take, global travel editor Annabel Grossman expressed a surprising disdain for Singapore Changi Airport, often lauded as the world's best. While acknowledging its impressive attractions—from rooftop gardens to a butterfly wall—she argued the extravagance creates pressure. "All I really want to do is check in and head straight to the gate," Grossman stated, preferring comfort and function over unnecessary spectacle.
Finally, US travel editor Ted Thornhill lamented the stark contrast between Geneva's elegant city and its underwhelming airport. He described the terminal as overcrowded, with lacklustre dining, inadequate seating, and too few power points—a woeful experience unworthy of its stunning alpine setting.
The collective insights from The Independent's travel desk, shared on Monday 19 January 2026, serve as a stark reminder that even in the age of modern air travel, the airport experience can frequently be the low point of any journey.
