For many travelers, a typical day of air travel involves a significant amount of sitting—whether it’s waiting for a flight to board or being airborne for hours. However, navigating through some of the United States’ larger airport hubs can unexpectedly turn into a fitness challenge, with extensive treks between terminals and gates. A recent study conducted by KURU Footwear has brought to light the airports where getting to your gate might just count as your daily workout.
Dallas/Fort Worth International Tops the List
Topping the chart for the longest airport walks in the U.S. is Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). According to the study, travelers might find themselves walking up to 2.16 miles to reach their gates. As one of the world’s busiest airports, DFW is home to more than 170 gates spread across five terminals, making it a behemoth in terms of size and passenger flow.
Following DFW, Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) claim the second and third spots, respectively. At IAD, passengers may face up to 1.62 miles of walking, while at IAH, the longest walk is measured at 1.52 miles.
A Walk or a Workout? Airports with the Longest Treks
KURU Footwear’s study emphasizes the physical aspect of navigating through airports, suggesting that travelers might need to brace themselves for a potential workout en route to their gates. With air travel hitting record numbers in 2023, the distances between gates and terminals could continue to stretch further, challenging travelers to keep up.
Seeking a Quainter Experience? Consider Smaller Airports
Not all airports will have you reaching for your walking shoes. The study also highlights smaller, more manageable airports where getting to your gate is a breeze. Blue Grass Airport in Lexington, Kentucky, for instance, boasts the shortest walk of only 0.11 miles across its single terminal. Similarly, Westchester County Airport in White Plains, New York, offers a compact layout with the longest walking distance just a tad longer at 0.12 miles.
What This Means for Travelers
Understanding the potential distances involved in navigating through some of the country’s largest airports can help travelers plan accordingly. Whether it means wearing more comfortable shoes or allowing extra time to get to your gate, being aware of these distances can make for a smoother travel experience. Moreover, for those who prefer a more relaxed journey, opting for flights out of smaller airports could be the key to a stress-free start to your trip.
