The beginning of a holiday should set the tone for what's to follow: a glass of champagne in the departure lounge, a leisurely browse of duty free and watching planes jet off into sunny skies before boarding your flight.
But this is often very far from the reality when travelling through UK airports.
Prolonged delays in stuffy, overcrowded halls, limited and overpriced food and drink options as well as disappointing customer service have rapidly become the norm for air travel.
This year's survey by consumer champion Which? has revealed which airports are the worst offenders for holidaymakers in 2026 – with factors such as 'Late cancellations', 'Check-in queues', 'Passport control queues' and 'Food and drink outlets' all taken into account.
This year, Manchester T3 has been declared the nation's worst airport, with a 52 per cent customer score. The aviation hub scored a paltry two stars in all categories surveyed, including 'Cleanliness' and 'Seating'.
