Which? Reveals UK’s Best and Worst Airports – Cardiff in the Top 10
A recent consumer survey conducted by Which? has shed light on the best and worst airports in the UK, with Cardiff Airport making it into the top 10. The annual report compared various airports across the country, with Manchester Airport ranking as the lowest-rated airport due to issues such as security queues, limited seating, and high prices in shops and restaurants.
On the bright side, Liverpool John Lennon Airport emerged as the best airport in the UK, receiving high ratings for factors important to travellers. Meanwhile, Cardiff Airport outperformed close competitor Bristol Airport, securing the 8th position compared to Bristol’s 22nd. Cardiff received a consumer rating of 71%, showcasing its strengths in areas like check-in and security queue lengths.
The positive feedback for Cardiff Airport comes amidst an increase in passenger numbers and expanded flight options. With passenger numbers up by 8% from January to July compared to the previous year, the airport has seen growth and attracted airlines like TUI, Vueling, and Ryanair to introduce more flights and destinations.
According to a spokesperson from Which?, smaller airports like Liverpool and London City tend to offer a better overall travel experience compared to larger counterparts like Heathrow and Gatwick. The smaller airports may have fewer destinations but excel in customer satisfaction, as reflected in the survey results.
The full list of rankings includes Liverpool John Lennon, London City, Norwich, Exeter, and Southampton in the top spots, while Manchester Airport’s terminals 3 and 1 ranked at the bottom. Despite receiving negative feedback, Manchester Airport is undergoing a £1.3 billion improvement project to enhance the passenger experience.
Passengers flying from Liverpool commended the airport for its quick and efficient processes, highlighting the friendly staff and minimal queues. In contrast, Manchester Airport faced criticism for its congestion and service quality, marking it as the least preferred option in the survey.
As the travel industry continues to evolve, airports play a crucial role in shaping travellers’ experiences. The survey results provide valuable insights into consumer preferences and areas for improvement within the UK’s airport infrastructure.
Whether you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional traveller, the performance and service standards of airports remain key factors in enhancing the overall journey experience. Cardiff’s positive ranking serves as a testament to its efforts in meeting passenger expectations and delivering quality service in a competitive aviation landscape.