After recently releasing our report on the best airports to fly from in 2020, it became clear that Asia is home to some of the best airports in the world. Ranking high in terms of performance, service and overall quality of entertainment to keep busy travellers happy, the best airports in Asia welcome millions of visitors arriving and departing each year
But, just which airports rank the highest? What’s the best airport for a long layover in Asia? Where will you find the best shops, restaurants, bars and airport lounges? These are all great questions, and we wanted to dig a little deeper to find some answers as well.
So, we compiled stats from Sleeping in Airports and the Best Airport Awards, took a look at rates of satisfaction, then mixed them all in with a smattering of comments, suggestions and complaints by frequent travellers to bring you this list…seven of the best airports in Asia for 2020.
Best Airports In Asia 2020
How do these rankings work?
1. Tokyo International Airport (HND)
The Tokyo International Airport is one of the best airports in 2020 pretty much across the board. According to AirHelp, the airport scored and 8.4 out of 10 in the categories of on-time performance, service quality, and the food and shops. It’s also much closer to downtown Tokyo than Narita Airport, which is about 50 miles outside of the city. For long layovers, it ranks amongst the top ten in Asia as well, giving travellers plenty of cosy spaces to spread out.
2. Singapore Changi Airport (SIN)
It’s no secret that Changi Airport is one of the best airports in Asia year after year. And, it’s only in part due to the unique and numerous pockets of lush greenery you’ll find all over the airport. The airport recently scored the highest in the world in terms of service quality, followed shortly by the international airport in Delhi. It did score a bit lowers for on-time performance. But, seeing as it’s home to the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, you’ll enjoy waiting around for your flight.
3. Seoul Incheon (ICN)
For a long layover and just pure excellence in terms of service, the Seoul Incheon airport is easily one of the best airports in Asia for 2020. They frequently host cultural exhibits and free city tours for transit passengers passing through for a long layover. The airport is fairly easy to navigate and they have dedicated rest zones with free padded lounges for travellers who need to get some rest before the next leg of their trip. Travelling has never been so relaxing.
4. Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT)
For the Best Airports in Asia 2019 awards, the Tokyo Narita Airport actually took the No. 6 spot. However, other polls have it up near about No. 3 or 4, which is where it landed for our study as well. The airport’s well-known amongst international travellers for its efficiency and comfort levels, whether you’re jetting off to another destination or sleeping overnight for an early flight the next morning. It also consistently ranks high in terms of safety.
5. Osaka Kansai International Airport (KIX)
See a trend going on here? Some of the world’s best airports are in Japan, with a few other small airports earning spots in the top 10 and top 20 lists in longer polls. The Osaka Kansai International Airport, however, takes the No. 5 spot on our list for its world-class service, cleanliness and shopping options. So, if you’re looking to book a long layover in Asia, you might want to do it in Osaka if it’s possible with your flight route. You’ll be able to shop your heart out.
6. Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)
Despite recent protests and even more recent cutbacks due to the coronavirus, the Hong Kong International Airport remains a favourite amongst international travellers connecting in Asia. Last year, nearly 72 million passengers flew through the here and the airport earned more than 80 different mentions on various “World’s Best Airport” lists. When flying through here, count on free, fast WiFi, clean facilities and lots of great places where you can grab a bite to eat.
7. Taipei Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)
The Taiwan Taoyuan Airport earned a No. 8 ranking on the Skytax’s list last year. But, you’ll find that it ranks a bit higher on other polls and amongst general travellers due to its unique themed gates and the excellent service from all staff members. It’s a bit smaller than the other massive airports in Asia, and that certainly adds to its charm. Offering up free showers for those with super long layovers and great 24-hour food options, it’s easy to see what makes it one of the best.
