Knowledge Hub

You’ve may have recently seen the headlines about the UK’s worst airports. But as an experienced travel management team who spend a lot of time on the move, we thought we’d flip the conversation on its head and highlight the airports we love, actually.  

Travel is second nature to us, it’s part of our role to make sure our production clients know exactly what to expect when they travel to film shoots around the globe, 24/7, 365 days a year.  

So, we asked our team members to rate airports on design, ease of travel, facilities, and customer experience. Seven destinations came out on top. 

Known for its striking design and smooth efficiency, Hamad International Airport feels more like a luxury hotel than a traditional hub. From the moment you arrive, its airy architecture and carefully curated atmosphere set a different tone to the typical travel experience. Here, world-class art installations line the terminals, blending culture with modernity, while high-end shopping and dining options rival those of a major city. Travellers with long layovers can unwind in wellness facilities that include spas, quiet rooms, and even a swimming pool, possibly the first we know of in an airport setting.  

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is more than a travel hub, it’s a destination. Regularly ranked among the world’s busiest airports, it combines efficiency with a touch of glamour, ensuring travellers are never short of comfort or things to do. Spanning three vast terminals, with Terminal 3 among the largest on the planet, the airport is easy to navigate thanks to sleek design, shuttles, and clear signage. Inside, it feels more like a mall than an airport. Duty-free shopping is legendary, offering everything from designer fashion and fine jewellery to the latest tech and Middle Eastern treasures. Dining is equally global, with choices ranging from quick bites to elegant restaurants serving international cuisine. For those with time to spare, think plush lounges, in-terminal hotels, sleep pods, spa services, and even quiet zones to recharge. Families will love the kids’ play areas, while business travellers can rely on high-speed Wi-Fi and seamless connections. 

Rovaniemi Airport may be small, but it delivers big on charm. Nestled on the edge of the Arctic Circle, it’s the gateway to Lapland’s winter wonderland and the official home of Santa Claus. Unlike vast international hubs, this airport is compact and functional, designed to get you from runway to reindeer sleigh in no time. 

Inside, the atmosphere feels cosy rather than crowded. Wooden accents, warm lighting, and festive touches set the tone for an authentic Lapland welcome, and   during the festive season, you might even spot Santa himself greeting travellers, a detail that makes arrivals especially magical for families. 

Despite its size, Rovaniemi Airport keeps up with modern standards. Facilities are simple but efficient, with cafés, a few shops, car hire desks, and smooth connections into town. Sustainability is also part of its character: as part of Finland’s commitment to net zero aviation, the airport is moving toward greener operations while retaining its intimate feel. 

Voted time and again as having one of the most scenic landings in the world, Donegal Airport is less about scale and more about soul. Nestled between rugged coastline and sweeping mountains, the approach alone feels like an adventure. Inside, the airport is small and friendly, offering a refreshingly stress-free experience compared to larger hubs. For travellers heading to Ireland’s northwest for filming purposes or a holiday, it’s more than just a gateway, t’s an immediate immersion into the wild beauty of Donegal itself. 

An unusual contender in the rankings of memorable airports, East Midlands makes its mark with efficiency and accessibility. Serving the heart of England, it’s compact enough to feel manageable yet busy enough to connect travellers to Europe and beyond. Its role as a major cargo hub gives it a different kind of energy, but for passengers, the quick check-ins, straightforward layout, and ease of parking make it an unexpectedly pleasant airport to travel through. It also has a quiet ambience compared with the hectic ambience of others. 

Balancing the energy of Australia’s cultural capital with the calm of a well-designed travel hub, Melbourne Airport has spacious terminals, diverse dining options, and impressive duty-free shopping reflect the city’s cosmopolitan spirit.  

What sets it apart is the seamless connection to Melbourne itself, whether you’re arriving to explore laneways and coffee culture or departing on a long-haul journey, the airport serves as a fitting introduction and farewell. Travellers often note its blend of efficiency and character, making it one of Australia’s strongest international gateways. 

For our travel management team and global customers in film, TV, sport and music, airports aren’t just stopovers, they’re part of the journey. But it’s more than airports. It’s the seamless management of flights, stays and experiences, ensuring everything works from start to finish. 

That’s why Access Bookings isn’t just about booking, it’s about planning, travel, unique stays, great value and more. Seamless, memorable journeys are what keep our customers coming back. 

Is Access Bookings on your radar for the complete travel experience? Get in touch now for your next business event – 📞 +44(0)1543 272 575 📧 contactus@accessbookings.com