LONG ISLAND, NY – Two Downstate New York–area airports have earned national recognition in The Washington Post’s latest ranking of the 50 best airports in the United States.
Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP) in Ronkonkoma and LaGuardia Airport (LGA) in Queens both made the cut, placing at No. 46 and near the bottom of the list, respectively. The rankings, based on a combination of data analysis and user input, evaluated airports on factors such as accessibility, amenities, wait times, TSA complaints, and on-time performance.
Long Island MacArthur Airport, operated by the Town of Islip, was the highest-ranked airport in New York State and the only one from Long Island to make the list. Known for its ease of navigation and lack of congestion compared to larger metropolitan airports, MacArthur has quietly expanded its reach in recent years. The airport currently supports approximately 6,000 jobs and contributes over $600 million annually to the local economy. Passenger traffic has grown to more than 1.3 million travelers per year, and officials have doubled the number of nonstop destinations served since 2011.
LaGuardia Airport, once the subject of widespread criticism for its outdated facilities, also made the Washington Post list – marking a significant turnaround for one of the busiest airports in the country. Following an $8 billion modernization project completed over several years, LaGuardia now features state-of-the-art terminals, redesigned roadways, and improved transit access. The overhaul, a joint effort between public and private partners, has helped improve the airport’s reputation and functionality.
While LaGuardia ranked lower on the list than MacArthur, its inclusion signals a remarkable shift in public perception and reflects the results of the massive infrastructure investment.
Portland International Airport in Oregon claimed the top spot overall, with other high-ranking airports including Detroit Metro, Salt Lake City International, and Albuquerque International Sunport.
The rankings were compiled from over 450,000 Yelp reviews and input from more than 2,300 Washington Post readers, supplemented by government and operational data.
For travelers in the New York metropolitan area, the results highlight an evolving landscape. With MacArthur offering a less stressful alternative and LaGuardia emerging from its troubled past, flyers now have more viable and competitive options than ever before.
Top Questions About the Washington Post’s Airport Rankings
1. How were the top 50 airports selected?
The rankings were based on a mix of over 450,000 Yelp reviews, input from more than 2,300 Washington Post readers, and official data on factors like TSA complaints, on-time performance, accessibility, and amenities.
2. Why did Long Island MacArthur Airport rank higher than LaGuardia?
MacArthur was praised for ease of navigation, low congestion, strong on-time performance, and recent service expansions—qualities often prioritized by travelers seeking convenience.
3. How many passengers use MacArthur Airport each year?
MacArthur Airport serves over 1.3 million passengers annually and continues to grow its route offerings.
4. What helped LaGuardia make the list after years of criticism?
LaGuardia’s $8 billion renovation—complete with new terminals, transit improvements, and updated infrastructure—transformed its reputation and improved passenger experience.
5. What other airports ranked highly in the Washington Post’s report?
Top-ranking airports included Portland International (Oregon), Detroit Metro (Michigan), Salt Lake City (Utah), and Albuquerque International Sunport (New Mexico).
6. Is JFK Airport on the list?
John F. Kennedy International Airport did not make the top 50, despite being the largest airport in the region.
7. What economic impact does MacArthur Airport have on Long Island?
The airport supports approximately 6,000 jobs and contributes over $600 million to the Long Island economy each year.
8. Are there future plans to expand either airport?
MacArthur continues working to add more direct routes and airlines, while LaGuardia’s renovation has largely been completed, though ongoing improvements in transit access are still being discussed.
9. Which airport is better for avoiding delays?
Historically, MacArthur has had higher on-time performance rates than LaGuardia, making it a preferred option for time-sensitive travelers.
10. Where can I see the full list of top 50 airports?
The full rankings are available on The Washington Post’s website.
