For many British travellers, enjoying a pint or a glass of wine at the airport is an essential part of the holiday ritual, a signal that the break has officially begun. However, a new study has revealed that not all airports are created equal when it comes to facilitating this pre-flight tradition.
The Worst Offenders for a Pre-Flight Tipple
Daniel K Inouye International Airport in Honolulu, Hawaii, has been ranked as the worst airport in the United States for a boozy experience. This conclusion, drawn from an analysis by Upgraded Points, is particularly surprising given Hawaii's reputation for tropical cocktails and a relaxed vibe. The airport's poor showing was attributed to a limited selection of bar options and low average ratings for the venues that do serve alcohol.
The study, which examined the 50 largest US airports, used three key metrics: the concentration of bars and restaurants serving alcohol per square mile, the accessibility of these venues per 10,000 passengers, and the average star rating from Google Reviews. Honolulu's airport scored poorly across the board.
It wasn't the only airport to disappoint thirsty travellers. Oakland International Airport in California followed closely as the second-worst, criticised for its poor accessibility and a lack of highly-rated bars compared to other Californian aviation hubs.
Where to Find the Best Airport Pubs
On the opposite end of the spectrum, the analysis crowned a clear winner for those seeking a quality pre-flight drink. Logan International Airport in Boston was named the best airport in the US for a boozy layover. It excelled in all three categories, offering a high concentration of well-regarded and easily accessible bars and restaurants for passengers.
This news comes as research indicates a shift in travel habits among younger generations. Four in 10 Gen Z travellers (those born from the mid-1990s to the early 2010s) are now reportedly choosing juices and smoothies over alcohol before their flights, prioritising healthier options.
The British Airport Scene
Despite this emerging trend, the pre-flight drink remains a firm favourite for many. For UK travellers, a separate study earlier this year highlighted where to find the most affordable pints. London Stansted, Heathrow, and Gatwick airports, alongside Birmingham International and Edinburgh Airport, were all tied for offering the cheapest pint of Coors Light or Bud Light at just £5.20.
So, while the ritual of the airport drink is alive and well, it seems your experience can vary dramatically depending on which terminal you find yourself in. For the best chance of a satisfying pint before takeoff, you might want to avoid a layover in Honolulu.
