There’s nothing more annoying than waking up at the crack of dawn and hurrying to the airport, only to find out your early morning flight is delayed.
Flight delays are undesirable for any traveler, but they can be extra frustrating for those with early morning and late night flights – especially when places to grab food or coffee are closed or your red-eye cuts into your sleep.
To help travelers avoid delays on their next flight, Upgraded Points ranked the best and worst airports for early morning and late night flights. The travel company analyzed data from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics on the 50 busiest U.S. airports, including the percentage of flights that depart before 8 a.m. and after 8 p.m., as well as how many flights get delayed and the average delayed departure.
“Booking the first flight out or a red-eye can greatly improve your travel experience,” Alex Miller, founder of Upgraded Points, told USA TODAY in a statement. “These off-peak flights often come with fewer crowds, meaning shorter lines at security and less hassle overall. Additionally, flights during these times are typically less expensive, offering a budget-friendly option for travelers. Early and late flights are less prone to delays since they avoid the busiest times of the day, making your travel plans more reliable.”
“Whether you’re looking to save money, enjoy a quieter airport experience, or ensure a timely departure, choosing a flight outside of peak hours is a smart strategy.”