Last Updated on February 25, 2026
The East Coast and West Coast have long battled over who has the best culture, food, music, and sports. Flight delays however, aren’t something either one of the coasts want at the top of their bragging list.
Researchers at InsureMyTrip have dug into the latest Department of Transportation data to find which airports had the most, and fewest delays so far in 2025 – and the results reveal a clear divide between East Coast and West Coast travel.
For travelers, knowing which airports are prone to delays can help with planning. They can choose a different airport or route, or purchase travel insurance for extra protection.
Unfortunately, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) scrapped plans that would have required airlines to pay cash compensation when delays happen. This means travelers will continue to be at the mercy of individual airline compensation policies.
With airlines off the hook, travel insurance is one of the only ways passengers can protect themselves – covering things like meals and hotels during long delays, lost luggage, or even last-minute cancellations.
Think you don’t need it? Think again.
The Best Airports with Lowest Percentage of Delays
Flying through the West Coast and Hawaii may mean smoother skies. Favorable weather, efficient operations, and lower congestion often keep flights running on time. These are the best.
1. Kahului Airport- Maui (OGG)
2. Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)
3. Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
4. San José Mineta International Airport (SJC)
5. Oakland International Airport (OAK)
6. John Wayne Airport (SNA)
7. Portland International Airport (PDX)
8. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
9. Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
10. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
The Worst Airports with Highest Percentage of Delays
The East Coast dominates the “most delays” due to frequent storms, crowded airspace, and aging infrastructure. It’s tough fighting all those factors when you’re traveling, but these may be airports you want to avoid if at all possible.
1. Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
2. Palm Beach International Airport (PBI)
3. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
4. McGhee Tyson Airport- Knoxville (TYS)
5. Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)
6. Norfolk International Airport (ORF)
7. Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF)
8. Jacksonville International Airport (JAX)
9. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
10. Memphis International Airport (MEM)
Can you avoid flight delays?
Unfortunately, you can’t. But the good news is that there are ways to minimize the negative effects of these travel delays. As a frequent air traveler, here are some suggestions.
Morning flights are less likely to be delayed since they are not affected by previous flights. Most planes are already at the airport, reducing the chance of delays due to late arrivals as most domestic jets don’t fly at night. A delayed or cancelled morning flight also provides a better opportunity to book another flight and get to your destination the same day.
Fly nonstop if at all possible. Adding in a connection can complicate the travel. Even if you end up spending a little more for a non-stop, it’s worth not having the frustration of an issue happening on your next connecting flight.
Avoid checking bags. I realize this isn’t always easy to do, especially if you’re taking a longer vacation. But if you can get by with a carry-on, you’ll be much less stressed if your flight is delayed or rescheduled. When flight delays and cancellations happen, baggage handling systems get strained, causing a back-up in retrieving luggage at your destination. Re-booking options are also easier without a checked bag. There are also luggage shipping services you can use that will ship your luggage straight to your hotel, allowing you to avoid any baggage issues while still having everything you need.
Be kind and considerate. It’s easy to get frustrated when things don’t go your way, but from personal experience, if your flight is cancelled for any reason and you need to approach airport staff for re-booking options, check your attitude. The person behind the counter has no control on maintenance issues, weather or other reasons for a delay or cancellation. Start out with a “Thanks for being here to assist me.” You’d be surprised what kindness and understanding will do. That guy ranting and raving may not get on any flight out that day, but you just might, or even be upgraded if the carrier has to to rebook you on a later flight or another airline.
