Singapore’s Changi Airport Loses the Title of World’s Best Airport in 2025 to This New Entrant
In a major shift in global aviation prestige, Singapore’s Changi Airport has lost the title of World’s Best Airport. Surprisingly a new entrant has claimed the top spot in Travel + Leisure’s 2025 World’s Best Awards, ending Singapore Changi Airport’s long reign as the world’s best. With an impressive score of 98.57, Istanbul’s flagship airport stood out for its advanced infrastructure, increasing international connectivity, and exceptional passenger experience.
Changi Airport, known worldwide for its lush greenery and the iconic indoor waterfall at Jewel, settled for second place with a score of 95.20. While still a marvel of design and service, the rise of Middle Eastern and Asian competitors has intensified the global race for excellence in air travel.
Istanbul Airport Soars
Located strategically between Europe and Asia, Istanbul Airport has steadily grown into a global hub since its opening. Its high ranking reflects travelers’ appreciation of its intuitive design, seamless navigation, cutting-edge amenities, and efficiency—qualities that elevated its score from 95.79 in 2024 to 98.57 in 2025.
Changi Still Shines
Despite being dethroned, Singapore’s Changi Airport remains a world-class favorite. With around 600,000 plants, futuristic terminals, and attractions like the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, Changi continues to deliver a one-of-a-kind travel experience, making it a strong runner-up.
India Shines Too: Mumbai Makes the Top 10
Adding to the pride for Indian aviation, Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport clinched the 9th spot globally, scoring 84.23—ahead of South Korea’s Incheon Airport. Operated by Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL) and managed by Adani Airport Holdings Ltd (AAHL), Mumbai’s airport has become a standout performer.
Recently, it also became the first airport in India and third globally to receive Level 5 Accreditation for Airport Customer Experience—the highest recognition awarded by Airports Council International (ACI).
Middle East and Asia Dominate Rankings
The 2025 list is dominated by airports from Asia and the Middle East, which claimed four of the top five positions. These regions continue to lead the aviation industry by combining luxury, technology, and efficiency—transforming transit hubs into full-blown travel destinations.
Top 10 Airports in the World – 2025
- Istanbul Airport – 98.57
- Singapore Changi Airport – 95.20
- Hamad International Airport, Doha – 92.34
- Zayed International Airport, Abu Dhabi – 89.48
- Dubai International Airport – 88.38
- Hong Kong International Airport – 86.22
- Helsinki-Vantaa Airport, Finland – 86.18
- Haneda Airport, Tokyo – 84.47
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai – 84.23
- Incheon International Airport, South Korea – 83.67
These rankings were based on reader responses in Travel + Leisure’s extensive survey of experienced flyers who judged airports on accessibility, cleanliness, food options, shopping, and overall experience.
A New Era of Global Travel Hubs
As more airports invest in becoming destinations themselves, offering luxury lounges, local culture showcases, gourmet cuisine, and digital innovation, travelers now see airports as much more than just points of transit.
