Introduction

Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, there’s an airport that best suits every traveler’s preference. Some passengers prefer to leave first thing in the morning to avoid delays, while others don’t mind a red-eye to make the most of their day. A new study from Upgraded Points, a company specializing in credit cards and travel rewards, has ranked the 50 busiest U.S. airports by scheduled departure times. The study also considered each airport’s flight delay percentage and the availability of coffee shops (or airport bars) open throughout the day.

Top Airports for Early Morning Travel

According to the study, Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE), Kansas City International Airport (MCI), and Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) are the best airports for early morning travel. These airports are touted for their minimal delays and the highest number of departures before 8 a.m. Travelers at these airports can enjoy a smooth trip with less time waiting around, making them ideal for early risers.

Worst Airports for Early Morning Travel

Conversely, some airports are less favorable for morning departures. Miami International Airport (MIA), Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) are among the worst for early risers. Issues include limited morning flights and a high percentage of delays. Additionally, these airports often lack adequate shops to grab a morning brew, adding to the inconvenience for travelers.

Best Airports for Late Night Travel

For those who prefer nighttime travel, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) turn the tables, ranking among the best. Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) also excels, with 22 percent of its scheduled flights departing after 8 p.m. and a substantial number of airport bars for travelers to pass the time.

Worst Airports for Late Night Travel

On the flip side, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) scored the lowest for late-night travel, with nearly 78 percent of departures delayed. San Antonio International Airport (SAT) and Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) also rank poorly due to their scant number of flights departing after 8 p.m.

Conclusion

Whether you’re catching an early flight or a red-eye, your experience can vary drastically depending on the airport. While some airports excel in catering to early birds, others better serve night owls. Knowing which airports are the most and least favorable for your preferred travel times can make your journey a bit more manageable. For a seamless experience, consider planning your flight times around the strengths and weaknesses of your departure airport.