Aging infrastructure coupled with booming demand for air travel have put a sometimes unbearable strain on North America's airports.
While it's no secret that our domestic facilities often lack the amenities and architectural flair of their international counterparts, there are a few that can more than hold their own.
Leading aviation reviewer Skytrax just released the results of its annual World Airport Awards, which includes a list of the best airports in North America.
The Skytrax annual rankings are based on the impressions of over 13 million flyers from 112 countries. More than 550 airports were included in the survey, which covers 39 service and performance parameters, including facility comfort, location of bathrooms, and the language skills of the airport staff.
10. Dallas/Forth Worth International Airport (DFW)
Yearly passengers:60 million
2014 rank: 9
Why it's great: DFW is the fourth-busiest airport in North America and the ninth-busiest in the world. The airport serves as the main hub for American Airlines as well as the gateway to Latin and South America for many others. Customer reviewers liked the airport's open circular design and convenient intra-airport transportation.
Source: Skytrax World Airport Awards. Yearly passenger figures are final rankings for 2013 provided by Airports Council International.
9. New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
Yearly passengers: 50 Million
2014 rank: 10
Why it's great: For many, JFK Airport is synonymous with the glory years of aviation. For others, JFK is no more than a crumbling relic of a bygone era.
In reality, the JFK of today is neither. Gone are the dated 1960s era terminal buildings and their dilapidated facilities. In their place are modern terminal facilities that are either newly constructed or recently renovated. JFK customers cite the airport's new terminals and shorter security lines as key improvements.
Source: Skytrax World Airport Awards. Yearly passenger figures are final rankings for 2013 provided by Airports Council International.
8. Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ)
Yearly passengers: 4 million
2014 rank: 7
Why it's great: Stanfield is the smallest airport on this list, but it's not without its charms. Skytrax named Stanfield the fourth-best regional airport in the North America in 2015. Customer reviewers raved about the regional cuisine served at the airport, which includes fresh lobster.
Source: Skytrax World Airport Awards. Yearly passenger figures provided by Halifax Stanfield Airport.
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