This all came to mind as an airport employee at MSP asked me to participate in a survey (luckily for them they didn’t ask me two days later on my way back through MSP, would have been a totally different survey response!). I would hope all airports would care so much to think about the amenities they offer their travelers and the ease of transition from gate to gate, offering free WIFI, as well as the quality of dining experience and parking facilities. We all know traveling can be such a nightmare so it really is the little things that matter.

It leads me to think about my favorite airports in this country- at least the ones I have been to so far, and how they are all so unique and different. And when you have had as many layovers, delays, bumps, missed connections as I have, you really begin to appreciate them for what they offer.

Three of my favorite Airports:

John Wayne International Airport (SNA): There is much to be desired of this airport when you use it as an alternative to overcrowded, confusing, and sometimes extremely obnoxious LAX. The quiet more relaxed nature of SNA makes it a great airport to fly into and out of easily because it is so small and intimate, plus they have a fantastic candy shop selling gourmet treats. I do however wish it had more of a variety of food options, McDonalds and Starbucks are great but a little more variety would be nice- but it isn’t a connection airport, so it’s really not a necessity.

Portland International Airport (PDX): This airport has been voted “Nation’s Best Airport” by Conde Nast Traveler for the past few years and it’s easy to see why. The airport is devoted to being green with solar panels, low flush toilets and they even compost the trash. That’s dedication my friends. They offer free WIFI- which is a must these days and a plethora of restaurants and food choices. They even have a great shopping area within the airport and is accessible by the MAX light rail service. Plus it has a beautiful view of the Columbia River!

Washington/Dulles International Airport (IAD): I’m not sure why I like this airport so much. Maybe I like the destination and so I get excited when I’m there. I think it stands out in my mind because of the architecture and the way the airport was designed. It helps to pass the time when you have interesting things to look at. They also have a very interesting mode of transportation within terminals. I tried to find out what they are called but couldn’t find it anywhere online. They almost remind you of army vehicles, they raise up and down are white and boxy. They are fun and frightening all at the same time. Lastly- bonus about this airport is they have a Five Guys.

What is your favorite or least favorite airport and why?

But hooray there is a solution! A company called provides customers, for a yearly fee, a high tech card that lets you skip ahead in pre-desginated security lines. Think of it as a Disneyland fast pass for the airports. This could save some serious time for frequent flyers.

Right now the company is operating in twenty airports and is continually adding more. Airports include: Albany, Atlanta, Cincinnati, DC Dulles, DC Reagan, Denver, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Little Rock, Los Angeles, New York JFK, New York LGA, Newark, Oakland, Orlando, Reno, Salt Lake City,San Francisco ,San José, Westchester. I am not going to lie, a little disappointed not to see Chicago, but otherwise most major airports notorious for thier crowded lines are listed. And only $128 a year? That’s cheap. Plus, it’s even registered at some sports stadiums to get you into the games faster.