Newest Study Reveals Top 10 Most Kid-Friendly Airports in the US

Boston Logan and Portland International Airport take the top spots.

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Apr 16, 2019, 09:19 ET

AUSTIN, Texas, April 16, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- In its recent data-backed study, Upgraded Points revealed the top 10 most kid-friendly airports in the nation, based on points awarded for specific criteria. The report discusses the overall difficulty that parents face in finding kid-friendly airports in the US, while showcasing airports that have worked hard to provide kid-friendly amenities.

Analysis Methodology

There are currently no national guidelines that compel airports to offer kid-friendly facilities, equipment or spaces. So while each airport is free to experiment with new ways to entertain children, these entertainments often vary a great deal. The only mandate exception is the 2018 federal law which requires large and medium-sized airports to provide clean, non-bathroom spaces for nursing mothers — the Friendly Airports for Mothers Act (FAM). Points were not awarded to airports for simply following FAM guidelines, though many airports have chosen to go above-and-beyond the regulations.

Overall, the study looked at the 50 busiest airports in the US ranked by total passengers boarded in 2018. Upgraded Points picked this guiding methodology solely for utility, with the assumption being that more parents and kids are serviced by the largest, most-trafficked airports. It is entirely possible that smaller airports work just as hard to accommodate family passengers, though such airports were not analyzed by this study.

To calculate rankings, points were awarded based on the quality and number of kid-friendly activities offered at each airport, with 10 points overall being a perfect score. Airports with multiple play areas received up to 4.5 points based on quality and number of these designated areas. Other such kid-friendly activities, like scavenger hunts, live music, art exhibits, etc. received up to 3.5 points. Unlimited free access to Wi-Fi was singled out as a special amenity, receiving 1 point, as Wi-Fi is a teen-friendly service. And finally, another point was awarded to airports that offered multiple family-friendly lounge options.

Top Two Kid-Friendly Airports

1. Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) – Ranked 10/10: With a "Kidsport" play area in three terminals, each designed by the Children's Museum of Boston, Boston Logan is the clear number one kid-friendliest airport. The indoor playgrounds feature a baggage claim slide, a climbable airplane, traditional slides and a replica of the airport's control tower. All play areas are stationed close to bathrooms to accommodate potty breaks, and there are multiple rocking chairs available for mothers with sleeping babies. Free Wi-Fi and charging stations are standard throughout the airport.

2. Portland International Airport (PDX) – Ranked 9.89/10: Portland International is a close second, with top marks for terminal facilities, food options and accessibility, in addition to multiple forms of entertainment. Being kid-friendly, the airport offers play areas in pre-security locations at the head of Concourses D and E. These include small climbing structures along with a toy telescope to watch plane activity out on the tarmac.

Post-security, there are several play areas in Terminals C and D that offer Lego tables and sculpted-foam elements to occupy kids before flights and during layovers. The most creative and artistic feature of Portland International is the Hollywood Theatre located in Concourse C. This theatre features short, family-friendly films made by local filmmakers.

"Traveling can be tough for anyone, considering all of the variables involved. But travel is especially difficult for families with babies and small children. That's why it's important to recognize those airports that strive to provide play-relief for all families," said Upgraded Points founder Alex Miller.

More information on the complete study, including travel tips and the least kid-friendly airports, can be found HERE.

About Upgraded Points LLC

Headquartered in Austin, Texas, Upgraded Points is a travel company that provides insider strategies on maximizing travel points and rewards. Launched in 2016 by Alex Miller, Upgraded Points uses targeted research efforts and in-depth studies to give travelers, as well as those looking to travel, a real understanding of how to maximize their points and miles. Learn more at: UpgradedPoints.com.

Contact:

Alex Miller, Founder
214-646-8866
[email protected]

SOURCE Upgraded Points LLC