Representative ImageAirAdvisor's latest study uncovers the financial burden faced by travellers stranded overnight at airports, highlighting New York's JFK as the most expensive globally. The research, which examined costs for essentials like meals, accommodation, and transport, found that Singapore's Changi Airport ranks 11th, just behind Hong Kong, with an average daily cost of $94 (S$129.20).
The study reveals that costs can vary dramatically, with travellers at JFK paying nearly $307 (S$422) for a day's basics, whilst those at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport spend just $24 (S$33). This 13-fold difference underscores the impact of local market conditions on travel expenses. Anton Radchenko, CEO of AirAdvisor, noted, “In some airports, the essentials cost less than a cinema ticket. In others, they rival the price of a weekend getaway.”
Key findings show that US airports dominate the top of the list, with Los Angeles (LAX) also featuring prominently. European airports like Zurich and Paris are consistently expensive, whilst Asian hubs such as Shanghai and Bangkok remain budget-friendly. Despite high food and drink prices, Istanbul ranks among the cheapest due to affordable hotel rates.
Radchenko advises travellers to prepare for potential disruptions by carrying essentials and understanding their rights. In Europe, airlines must provide meals and accommodation under EU Regulation 261/2004, whilst the Montreal Convention offers international reimbursement rights. “A little preparation and knowledge can turn a stressful overnight delay into something far more manageable,” Radchenko added.
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