No one knows the inside and out of airports more than frequent fliers. We asked some of our favorite meeting planners to name their favorite airports — and what makes them so special.
Here’s a list of planners’ favorite airports:
Dane County Regional Airport, Madison, Wisc.
“It is a Frank Lloyd Wright–inspired design. It’s so reliable, even in the worst of weather, and super easy and fast to navigate. Since I fly out of there all the time, I am on a first-name basis with many of the agents and they will do whatever they can for me if I do have a problem. It is rare to find people who truly care in the airport world. It does not have to be a hub to be a great airport.”—Sandra Daniel, President & CEO, FIRE Light Group
Changi Airport Singapore
“Great shopping / hourly hotel / easy transport between terminals / safe / spacious. It’s at the top of the list for me!”—Carolyn Pund, CMP, CMM, Global Strategic Meetings & Technologies Management, Business Event Operations, Cisco Systems
Amsterdam Airport, Schiphol
“How can you top an airport with a museum featuring works by the Dutch masters?!”—Heather Herrig, CMP, Principal, Every last Detail (See the new airport guide here.)
Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport
“It has the best restaurant options, excellent shopping, comfortable seating and lounging throughout all public spaces and it’s very close to the Mall of America for long layovers. Also, the attached InterContinental Airport Hotel has TSA, so those with carry-on luggage can proceed right from the hotel to the gate area without ever going outside.”—Koleen M. Roach, Director, Meetings & Conference Management, Securian Financial
Washington Dulles
“One of my favorite sports whenever I am flying out of Washington Dulles airport (IAD) is stopping for a quick bite at one of two locations: Bistro Atelier (Terminal/Concourse D) for breakfast (they have an amazingly large and delicious croissant sandwich of egg, your choice of meat and the famed French cheese, Gruyere) and Chef Geoff (Terminal/Concourse C), which has wonderful drinks and a delectable lunch menu.”—Tiwana Perry, Sr. Manager, Corporate Communications, Brand USA
Multiple Airports
“Best airport to get your steps in: Dubai International Airport
Best area / coffee while waiting for a flight: Boston Logan – Espressamente Illy @ Terminal B/near gate 17. You’re welcome!
Smallest / most convenient: TF Green in Providence, RI
Best shopping: London Heathrow
Awe-inspiring views: Salt Lake City International Airport during the winter
Best celeb watching: JFK, LAX & Heathrow”—Agnes Canonica, Global Account Director, Corporate Meetings and Events, MCI i USA
Looking for healthy airport food? Look no further than these recommendations.
