Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport is taking off with a new national accolade, earning recognition as the best airport in the United States — a distinction that puts the Coastal Empire’s gateway in the national spotlight.
Tuesday, Condé Nast Travelerreleased its 2026 Reader's Choice Awards, with the Savannah Airport being ranked No. 1. Condé Nast Traveler is a travel magazine known for its destination coverage, hotel reviews and in-depth journalism.
"It might come as little surprise that this Georgia airport was once named the 'happiest' in the country," reads the magazine's website. "SAV is not a particularly busy airport, but it’s that smallness, not to mention its town square–inspired layout, that makes it feel intimate and inviting.
Travelers might feel as if they’ve been transported back in time to a historic Southern street, complete with benches and a large clock. Here, they can shop for cigars or golfing gear and dine at the PGA Tour Grill."
The Airport responded with a celebration post on social media.
"We are honored to be named the #1 Airport in the U.S. for the 7th consecutive year in the @cntraveler Readers’ Choice Awards," reads the airport's Instagram page. "This recognition is a thank you to every traveler who voted and to the remarkable SAV team who make our airport the best year after year."
Latrice Williams is a general assignment reporter covering Bryan and Effingham County. She can be reached at lwilliams6@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport named best airport in the U.S.
