The UK has plenty of big airports, from London Heathrow with its four terminals to Manchester with three. However, neither of these or any of the other big-name airports has topped the list of the UK’s best airports, with the much smaller Exeter proving to be the most customer-friendly airport in the country.
Consumer champion Which? conducted a survey of the UK’s airports, determining that smaller airports are preferred by travellers. They found that Exeter came out on top with an 80% customer score. The experts write: “The experience of flying from a tiny airport like Exeter is vastly different from using any of the giants. First, you can park right outside, walk in, and you’re right by the gate in less than five minutes.
“The small passenger numbers mean queues are minimal (rated five stars for security), and even Ryanair can’t make the boarding process here too stressful.”
Singing the praises of Exeter Airport, one traveller told Which?: “The staff at Exeter are always incredibly friendly and helpful.”
On Google Reviews, another visitor wrote: “Tiny airport with only a few flights a day. Very easy [to] check in; nobody in the queue. Security was a breeze with more staff there than passengers!
“When you’re used to the bigger airports, it’s a really nice change. Would definitely use again. Drop off is £5 for 30 minutes or free if you walk a few minutes.”
While another added: “Great local airport; in and out so quickly. Good selection of duty-frees. Quick to drop off the bags and check in, straight through airside without any delays and sat with a beer and wine.
“Amazingly quick on the way back, suitcase was on the conveyor within 15 minutes and then less than a 10-minute walk to car park 3. On the road from touchdown in less than half an hour. Good selection of destinations too. Look forward to our next visit.”
Second on the list was Liverpool John Lennon, with a 78% customer rating. Despite its size, and the fact the airport is rapidly expanding, travellers have still labelled it a “stress-free” airport that feels “well managed”.
On the other end of the spectrum was Manchester Airport, with Terminal 3 receiving a customer rating of 43% and Terminal 1 jyst 47%. Terminal 2 at the airport received slightly higher, with 53%.