Greenville–Spartanburg International Airport Pulls Ahead of Louis Armstrong New Orleans as Extraordinary Passenger Experience, Dedicated Staff and Seamless Journeys Leave the Entire Aviation World Stunned

Written By: Pamela Das

Pamela Das

I'm Pamela Das, an SEO Content Writer at Travel and Tour World, a leading travel and tourism news portal based in Kolkata, where I work on crafting engaging, search-optimized editorial content for a global travel audience. Alongside my professional role, I'm pursuing an MA in Comparative Literature at Jadavpur University, expected in 2027, which reflects my deep and abiding interest in literature, language, and cross-cultural storytelling.

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July 21, 2026 12:48 AM

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Greenville–Spartanburg International Airport is making headlines as it pulls ahead of Louis Armstrong New Orleans with an extraordinary passenger experience that is winning praise from travellers and aviation experts alike. Moreover, the airport has built its reputation through dedicated staff, efficient operations and seamless journeys that make every step of travel simple and comfortable. As a result, passengers enjoy faster processing, cleaner facilities and a welcoming atmosphere from arrival to departure. Consequently, the airport has earned prestigious international recognition, while its remarkable achievements have left the entire aviation world stunned. Although many airports focus on expansion, Greenville–Spartanburg has shown that exceptional customer care and operational excellence can make a greater impact. Furthermore, its continued success proves that a regional airport can compete with some of America’s most recognised aviation gateways. This outstanding accomplishment is reshaping expectations for passenger satisfaction and demonstrating why Greenville–Spartanburg International Airport has become one of the most admired success stories in modern aviation.

Greenville–Spartanburg Airport shines on the global stage

Greenville–Spartanburg International Airport (GSP) in South Carolina has emerged as one of the most impressive regional airports in the United States. The airport is gaining worldwide recognition after earning multiple honours in the 2025 Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards, announced by Airports Council International (ACI) World in February 2026. The awards are based on verified passenger surveys conducted at airports, making them one of the aviation industry’s most trusted measures of customer satisfaction.

GSP received five major awards, including Best Airport in North America for airports handling between two and five million passengers, Airport with the Most Dedicated Staff, Easiest Airport Journey, Most Enjoyable Airport, and Cleanest Airport. The airport was also inducted into the prestigious ACI World Director General’s Roll of Excellence, recognising years of consistently outstanding passenger service.

Passenger satisfaction drives success

Unlike many airport rankings that rely on online reviews, the ASQ programme collects feedback directly from travellers during their airport journey. Passengers evaluate every stage of their experience, including check-in, security, cleanliness, wayfinding, terminal comfort, shopping, dining and staff friendliness.

The multiple awards received by GSP show that passengers value its simple and stress-free travel experience. The airport has built a strong reputation for short security queues, helpful employees, clean facilities and an easy-to-navigate terminal. These qualities have helped it stand out among airports of a similar size across North America.

Record-breaking passenger growth

The airport is not only delivering excellent customer service but is also experiencing rapid growth. In 2025, Greenville–Spartanburg International Airport welcomed a record 3,043,621 passengers, marking the first time it has handled more than three million travellers in a single year. This represented a 5.7 per cent increase compared with 2024, reflecting the region’s growing demand for air travel.

Several major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, Allegiant Air, Breeze Airways and Avelo Airlines, now connect the airport to key destinations across the United States.

Investing in the future

To support rising passenger numbers, GSP continues to invest in major infrastructure projects under its Terminal Runway Infrastructure Projects (TRIP) programme. The improvements include terminal expansion, roadway upgrades, parking enhancements and airfield developments designed to make future travel even smoother.

The airport also plays a major role in South Carolina’s economy. According to its latest economic impact study, GSP generates around US$4 billion in economic activity and supports nearly 20,000 jobs across the region.

Greenville–Spartanburg International Airport demonstrates that a regional airport can compete with much larger aviation hubs by focusing on service, efficiency and passenger comfort. Its latest international recognition highlights how customer experience has become one of the most important measures of success in modern aviation.

New Orleans airport earns global recognition for customer experience

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is strengthening its position as one of the leading airports in the United States. Located in Kenner, just outside New Orleans, the airport has gained international attention after receiving major honours in the 2025 Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards, announced by Airports Council International (ACI) World in February 2026. The awards are based on verified passenger surveys carried out during the airport journey, making them one of the aviation industry’s most respected measures of customer satisfaction.

MSY was recognised as one of North America’s Best Airports at Departures in the category for airports handling between five and fifteen million passengers each year. The airport was also inducted into the prestigious ACI World Director General’s Roll of Excellence, recognising its long-term commitment to delivering outstanding passenger experiences.

A smooth and memorable journey for every traveller

The airport’s success comes from its continued focus on making travel simple, comfortable and enjoyable. Passengers praised the airport for its modern facilities, efficient security screening, clean terminals and friendly staff. The spacious terminal, which opened in 2019, offers a smooth passenger flow while reflecting the unique culture of New Orleans.

Visitors can enjoy a wide range of restaurants serving famous local cuisine, along with music-inspired design and cultural displays that celebrate the city’s rich heritage. These features help create a memorable experience from arrival to departure.

Millions continue choosing MSY

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport remains Louisiana’s busiest commercial airport. During 2025, it handled 12.43 million passengers, highlighting its important role as the state’s main gateway for tourism, business travel and cruise passengers.

The airport offers nonstop connections to around 60 destinations across the United States, Canada, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean. Major airlines serving the airport include Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Spirit Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Breeze Airways and British Airways.

Preparing for the future

To support future growth, airport leaders are developing a comprehensive 20-year Airport Master Plan. The long-term programme includes proposals for a second passenger terminal, 15 additional gates, expanded baggage systems, new parking facilities, more security checkpoints and improvements to the airfield and surrounding road network.

These investments are designed to prepare the airport for rising passenger demand while maintaining high service standards.

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport demonstrates how modern infrastructure, efficient operations and local culture can work together to create an outstanding travel experience. Its latest international recognition from ACI World confirms that MSY is not only an important gateway to Louisiana but also one of North America’s leading airports for passenger satisfaction.

Two award-winning gateways that lead to unforgettable experiences

A great airport is more than a place to catch a flight. It is the beginning of a memorable journey. Greenville–Spartanburg International Airport in South Carolina and Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport in Louisiana have earned praise for delivering excellent passenger experiences. Beyond their terminals, both airports provide quick access to some of the most exciting attractions in the United States. Whether travellers enjoy nature, history, food or culture, these gateways place remarkable experiences within easy reach.

Discover the beauty of Upstate South Carolina near Greenville–Spartanburg International Airport

Greenville–Spartanburg International Airport is located in Greer, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the scenic Upstate region of South Carolina.

Just a short drive away is Falls Park on the Reedy, one of Greenville’s most famous attractions. Visitors can enjoy peaceful gardens, walking trails and the iconic Liberty Bridge, which offers beautiful views of the waterfall flowing through the heart of the city.

Nearby, Downtown Greenville welcomes visitors with lively streets, local restaurants, boutique shops and public art. The area is perfect for an evening walk or a relaxing meal after arriving.

Nature lovers can head to Paris Mountain State Park, where hiking, cycling, kayaking and picnic areas offer a refreshing escape only minutes from the city.

Families can explore the Greenville Zoo, home to animals from around the world, while motorsport enthusiasts can visit the BMW Performance Center, where visitors can experience advanced driving programmes and learn more about BMW’s manufacturing presence in South Carolina.

For travellers willing to venture a little farther, the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains provide breathtaking scenery, waterfalls, scenic drives and charming mountain towns.

Experience the spirit of Louisiana near Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport serves as the main gateway to one of America’s most distinctive cities. Within a short drive, visitors can discover New Orleans’ famous blend of history, music and cuisine.

The legendary French Quarter remains the city’s biggest attraction. Its colourful buildings, lively streets and historic atmosphere create an unforgettable first impression. Visitors can enjoy local cafés, traditional jazz performances and unique shops throughout the district.

Just beside the French Quarter is Jackson Square, where artists, musicians and street performers bring the city’s creative energy to life. Nearby stands the magnificent St. Louis Cathedral, one of the oldest cathedrals in North America.

Food lovers should visit the vibrant French Market, where local dishes, fresh produce and handmade crafts showcase Louisiana’s rich culinary heritage.

Music enthusiasts can spend an evening on Frenchmen Street, widely known for its live jazz clubs and authentic local performances.

For those interested in nature, City Park offers beautiful gardens, walking trails, museums and outdoor recreation, while the National WWII Museum provides one of the country’s most highly regarded historical experiences.

More than airports, they are gateways to remarkable destinations

Greenville–Spartanburg International Airport and Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport demonstrate that excellent passenger service is only the beginning of the travel experience. Their convenient locations place visitors within easy reach of waterfalls, mountain landscapes, vibrant city centres, world-famous music, historic landmarks and unforgettable local cuisine. Whether exploring the natural beauty of South Carolina or the rich culture of Louisiana, travellers can begin their adventure almost immediately after landing, making these airports exceptional gateways to two of America’s most rewarding destinations.

Greenville–Spartanburg International Airport has shown that outstanding passenger experience is not determined by the size of an airport but by the quality of service it delivers. Through dedicated staff, seamless journeys, clean facilities and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction, the airport has earned global recognition and strengthened its reputation among travellers. Its success demonstrates how regional airports can compete with larger aviation hubs by putting passengers first. As expectations continue to rise across the aviation industry, Greenville–Spartanburg International Airport stands as an inspiring example of excellence, proving that exceptional service remains the true gateway to memorable and rewarding travel experiences.

Credit: ACI World ASQ Customer Experience Awards