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Spain Joins Italy, Denmark, Austria, Switzerland, Finland, Czech Republic, UK and More to Set a New Standard for Airport Customer Service Excellence Across Europe, Redefining Travel Comfort Like Never Before!
Airports are not just travel hubs—they are the beginning and end of a traveller’s journey. A smooth, stress-free airport experience can set the tone for a positive travel adventure. On the other hand, long queues, confusing signage, or delayed services can quickly turn a trip into a frustrating experience.
In the highly competitive world of global air travel, some airports are shining brighter than others. The 2025 Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Customer Experience Awards by Airports Council International (ACI) World spotlight those airports that excel at delivering superior customer experiences. Based on real-time feedback from passengers, these awards rank airports on their ability to provide an outstanding experience across various touchpoints—be it check-ins, security procedures, facilities, or staff interactions.
This year, Spain, Italy, Denmark, Austria, Switzerland, Finland, and several other European countries have emerged as the leaders in offering exceptional airport experiences. In this article, we will take you through the top airports in Europe as recognised by the 2025 ASQ Awards, exploring how each country and its airports have managed to achieve such remarkable customer satisfaction.
Let’s dive in and find out why Spain, Italy, Denmark, Austria, Switzerland, Finland, and other countries are winning the battle for the best airport experiences in Europe!
Spain’s Dominance in the ASQ Rankings: Madrid‑Barajas and Gran Canaria Shine
When it comes to airport service quality, Spain takes the lead, with two of its major airports — Adolfo Suárez Madrid‑Barajas Airport and Gran Canaria Airport — receiving top recognition for their exceptional customer service.
Adolfo Suárez Madrid‑Barajas Airport: Spain’s Flagship of Excellence
As the busiest airport in Spain, Madrid‑Barajas is a central hub that connects Europe to destinations across the globe. The airport is consistently ranked among Europe’s best for passenger satisfaction, excelling in areas such as cleanliness, security processing speed, and staff professionalism.
Key Highlights:
- Efficient Check-ins: The airport has invested in cutting-edge self-check-in kiosks and a robust online check-in system, significantly reducing waiting times for passengers.
- Seamless Security: With a strong focus on passenger security, Madrid‑Barajas has streamlined the security process while maintaining high standards of safety, making the entire procedure faster and more efficient.
- Shopping and Dining: The airport’s wide range of duty-free stores and local dining options provide travellers with a variety of choices while they wait for their flights, enhancing the overall experience.
Table: Madrid‑Barajas Airport Performance
| Service Area | Rating | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Check-in Efficiency | 4.8/5 | Fast, automated check-in kiosks, efficient staff |
| Security Procedures | 4.7/5 | Quick and streamlined security checks |
| Facilities & Amenities | 4.6/5 | Great shopping, diverse dining options |
Gran Canaria Airport: Spain’s Hidden Gem
Despite being a smaller airport compared to Madrid, Gran Canaria Airport punches above its weight. Located in the Canary Islands, this airport is the main gateway for tourists heading to the Spanish islands, known for its efficient security checks and tourist-friendly atmosphere.
Key Highlights:
- Tourist‑Friendly: The airport offers multilingual staff and helpful tourist information desks, ensuring international visitors feel at ease.
- Modern Facilities: Passengers enjoy comfortable waiting areas, high-speed Wi-Fi, and easy access to amenities, all contributing to an excellent experience.
Table: Gran Canaria Airport Performance
| Service Area | Rating | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Efficiency | 4.6/5 | Friendly staff, smooth transitions |
| Passenger Comfort | 4.7/5 | Comfortable seating, ample lounge space |
Italy’s Pride: Rome Fiumicino Airport Leading the Charge
Italy’s Rome Fiumicino Airport continues to set the standard for passenger satisfaction, remaining one of the busiest and most renowned airports in Europe. It serves as the main international gateway to Italy and is consistently recognised for its superior service.
Rome Fiumicino Airport: A Seamless Experience
With more than 40 million passengers passing through its terminals every year, Rome Fiumicino ensures that each traveller’s journey is as efficient and enjoyable as possible.
Key Highlights:
- Check-in Services: Automated kiosks and a highly efficient check-in system ensure that passengers can quickly process their paperwork and head to their gates.
- Lounge & Amenities: The airport offers a wide range of luxurious lounges, including the Leonardo da Vinci Lounge, where travellers can enjoy a peaceful and comfortable environment.
- Passenger Convenience: Free Wi-Fi and helpful staff throughout the airport help to create a welcoming atmosphere for international passengers.
Table: Rome Fiumicino Airport Performance
| Service Area | Rating | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Check-in Efficiency | 4.9/5 | Automated kiosks, quick processing times |
| Passenger Comfort | 4.8/5 | Premium lounges, excellent seating areas |
Denmark and Austria Lead the Way for Medium‑Sized Hubs
While large airports dominate the rankings, Denmark’s Copenhagen and Austria’s Vienna airports demonstrate that medium‑sized hubs can also provide world-class service.
Copenhagen Airport: Efficiency at Its Best
Copenhagen Airport is a popular hub for passengers travelling between Scandinavia and the rest of Europe. Known for its efficient security, clear signage, and modern amenities, the airport provides a hassle-free experience for both business and leisure travellers.
Key Highlights:
- Easy Navigation: Passengers consistently praise the airport for its clear signage and easy-to-follow paths, which make it quick to get through the terminals.
- Fast Security: Copenhagen boasts one of the fastest security check processes in Europe, with minimal waiting time for passengers.
Table: Copenhagen Airport Performance
| Service Area | Rating | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Check-in & Security | 4.7/5 | Fast, efficient procedures |
| Amenities | 4.6/5 | Excellent food, ample seating and Wi-Fi access |
Vienna Airport: A Model of Customer Satisfaction
Vienna International Airport continues to win praise for its cleanliness, excellent customer service, and smooth transit experiences. It is an ideal gateway for passengers heading to Central Europe and remains a standout in passenger feedback.
Key Highlights:
- Cleanliness: The airport is often recognised for its immaculate facilities, including restrooms, lounges, and terminal spaces.
- Staff Friendliness: Vienna Airport employees are noted for their helpful and friendly demeanor, providing a welcoming environment.
Table: Vienna Airport Performance
| Service Area | Rating | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Cleanliness | 4.8/5 | Excellent cleanliness standards |
| Customer Service | 4.7/5 | Friendly, approachable staff |
Switzerland and Finland: Precision in Service
Switzerland’s Zurich Airport and Finland’s Helsinki Airport are exemplars of precision, efficiency, and high standards.
Zurich Airport: Smooth and Seamless
Zurich Airport stands out for its on-time performance, easy transfers, and high-quality amenities. It’s the gateway for both business and leisure travellers heading to Switzerland and beyond.
Key Highlights:
- Passenger Assistance: Zurich provides real-time flight information, allowing passengers to stay informed and stress-free.
- On-Time Performance: Known for its excellent punctuality and fast transfers, Zurich ensures that travellers enjoy a seamless journey.
Helsinki Airport: Nordic Excellence
Helsinki Airport is an efficient hub with world-class customer service and state-of-the-art facilities. It is especially known for its easy connections to Asia and Northern Europe.
Key Highlights:
- Modern Amenities: From spa services to relaxation zones, Helsinki provides passengers with opportunities to relax before flights.
- Technological Integration: Helsinki continues to introduce innovative technologies like automated check-ins and smart baggage systems, making the travel experience smoother for passengers.
Table: Zurich and Helsinki Airports Performance
| Airport | Country | Rating | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zurich Airport | Switzerland | 4.8/5 | High punctuality, easy transfers |
| Helsinki Airport | Finland | 4.7/5 | Modern facilities, automated systems |
UK’s Smaller Airports: Newcastle and Belfast Lead the Way
Newcastle International Airport and Belfast City Airport in the UK are shining examples of how smaller airports can excel in customer experience.
Newcastle International Airport: Small But Mighty
Newcastle Airport continues to impress passengers with its fast check-ins, easy connections, and welcoming atmosphere. Despite its size, it offers the same level of customer care as larger airports.
Belfast City Airport: Efficiency and Comfort
Belfast City Airport is known for its quick security checks, comfortable lounges, and its proximity to Belfast’s city centre. It’s an excellent choice for both domestic and international travellers.
Table: UK’s Smaller Airports Performance
| Airport | Country | Rating | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newcastle International | United Kingdom | 4.6/5 | Efficient check-ins, quick access |
| Belfast City Airport | United Kingdom | 4.7/5 | Friendly staff, fast security |
Rising Stars: The New Contenders from Georgia, Estonia, Latvia, and Malta
In addition to the larger and medium-sized airports, smaller regional hubs in Georgia, Estonia, Latvia, and Malta are increasingly making their mark.
Tbilisi International Airport (Georgia)
- Known for its modern terminal facilities, Tbilisi has been praised for its efficient security measures and pleasant passenger experience.
Tallinn Airport (Estonia)
- Tallinn impresses with its efficient customs processing, clear signage, and well-maintained amenities.
Riga Airport (Latvia)
- Riga is noted for its cleanliness, clear instructions, and prompt baggage handling.
Malta International Airport
- Malta continues to be a favourite for its hassle-free check-in process and clear terminal signs.
Why These Awards Matter: The Importance of Customer Experience in Air Travel
The ACI ASQ Awards are crucial in helping airports benchmark and continuously improve their services. These awards show that passenger experience is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for ensuring the long-term success of airports and airlines alike. By recognising the top performers, the ACI ASQ Awards highlight the best practices and encourage other airports to elevate their customer service standards.
Conclusion: Europe’s Airports Set the Standard for Excellence
The 2025 ACI ASQ Awards have revealed that Spain, Italy, Denmark, Austria, Switzerland, Finland, the UK, and other European countries are leading the way when it comes to airport customer service. Whether it’s Madrid, Rome, Zurich, or Prague, these airports have proven that exceptional customer experience is key to keeping passengers satisfied and loyal.
As air travel continues to grow, these airports will serve as models for how to create seamless, efficient, and enjoyable experiences for travellers around the world.
The post Spain Joins Italy, Denmark, Austria, Switzerland, Finland, Czech Republic, UK and More to Set a New Standard for Airport Customer Service Excellence Across Europe, Redefining Travel Comfort Like Never Before! appeared first on Travel And Tour World.