Full Breakdown
Portland International Airport Rises to #2 in JD Power’s 2026 Large-Airport Survey
By Drooid · · How we work
Survey Results and Ranking Shift
The JD Power 2026 North America Airport Satisfaction Study placed Portland International Airport (PDX) in second place among the “large airports” category, trailing only Tampa International Airport (TPA). In the prior year’s survey, PDX had been ranked sixth, indicating a notable climb that fuels speculation the airport could contend for the top spot when the next study is released. The final results were published on September 16, 2026.
Category Definition and Competitors
JD Power’s “large airports” segment comprises twenty-four facilities, distinct from “mega” and “medium” categories. The list includes Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), Dallas Love Field (DAL), Honolulu International Airport (HNL), John Wayne Airport, Orange County (SNA), Kansas City International Airport (MCI), Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), Nashville International Airport (BNA), Oakland International Airport (OAK), Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Sacramento International Airport (SMF), Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), San Antonio International Airport (SAT), San Diego International Airport (SAN), San Jose International Airport (SJC), Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU).
Findings on Passenger Experience
JD Power reported that overall satisfaction with North American airports rose despite high passenger volumes. Travelers responded positively to efforts that create a “sense of place,” such as local food and beverage options and distinctive décor. The study also found a direct correlation between the quality of the terminal experience and the amount of money passengers spend while on-site.
Outlook and Upcoming Survey
Fielding for the 2027 study began in July 2026, with final results slated for September 15, 2027. Airport officials view the upward trend as evidence that targeted improvements—particularly in local branding and amenity upgrades—are resonating with travelers and may position PDX to challenge Tampa for the top ranking in the next cycle.
