JD Power’s latest customer‑satisfaction survey placed the three major airports serving the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area near the bottom of its North American rankings. Of the 25,000 travelers surveyed, Reagan National Airport fell to the seventh‑worst position, while Washington Dulles International Airport and Baltimore/Washington International Airport also ranked among the lowest‑performing facilities.
The JD Power study evaluated a range of passenger‑experience factors, including the ease of navigating the airport, the condition and availability of terminal facilities, the helpfulness of staff, and the variety of retail and dining options. Respondents rated each airport on these criteria, and the aggregate scores determined the overall rankings released in September 2026.
Reagan National’s placement as the seventh‑worst airport reflects lower scores across several categories, particularly in terminal amenities and retail selections, according to the data released. Dulles and BWI also received below‑average marks, suggesting broader challenges for the region’s air travel infrastructure in meeting traveler expectations.
The findings are part of JD Power’s regular assessment of passenger satisfaction at airports across North America, a benchmark that airlines and airport operators often reference when planning service improvements. The low rankings for the D.C. area airports may prompt local authorities and airport managers to examine the surveyed criteria and consider adjustments aimed at enhancing the overall traveler experience.
JD Power conducts the airport satisfaction survey annually, gathering feedback from a cross‑section of travelers who have recently used facilities throughout the continent. The organization compiles the results into a single ranking that highlights both high‑performing hubs and those lagging behind. While several major airports in the United States regularly secure top positions, the recent placement of the three D.C. airports near the bottom underscores a disparity that contrasts with the region’s status as a major business and tourism center.