This Bustling Canadian Airport Was Just Ranked No. 1 In All Of North America

Some airports are better than others, especially when it comes to surviving a long layover and being stuck in one spot for hours on end. Does the airport have a good lounge? Does it have exciting food options? Is it clean? Are the ground staff members kind and helpful? All of these questions are answered in the affirmative within one bustling Canadian airport's more than 20,000 Google reviews, earning it a 4.3-star rating. In fact, it was recently ranked the No.1 airport in all of North America.

Canada's very own Vancouver International Airport (YVR), located in Richmond, British Columbia, has been given the prestigious title of best airport in North America, according to the Skytrax World Airport Awards for 2025. Navigating a busy airport during the holidays can turn even the most seasoned traveler into a ball of stress, but that's where YVR shines among its peers: Passengers at YVR claim it is extremely easy to get around.

While some travelers need to read up on tips and tricks to help navigate New York airports (though New York's LaGuardia Airport surprisingly came in at No. 2!), Vancouver's YVR doesn't need any special explanations, planning in advance, or worrying about not being able to move around efficiently. And even better, it's a feast for the eyes. Just take one look at the interior of YVR and you'll be treated to an immense amount of Canadian Indigenous art, large windows allowing natural light to fill the airport, and even sculptures, water features, and  an aquarium, making the waiting hall one impressive work of architectural magnificence.

Of the many 5-star Google reviews online, Val T. states that YVR is "One of the nicer airports out there," calling it "clean, modern, and surprisingly calming for a busy place. The layout makes sense, and the signage is clear so it's easy to get around." Apparently, connecting through YVR is a breeze as well. "Arrived here from Munich on my way home to Portland, OR," wrote MyVisit MyView. "I found immigrations and U.S. customs to be easy to maneuver. Very efficient, easy, and friendly."

YVR's mission statement – to be a sustainable airport that puts customers first while connecting British Columbia to the world — isn't overlooked either. As the second busiest airport in Canada (Toronto's YYZ being first), YVR served over 25 million passengers and covered 75 destinations in 2024. With daily flights to Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Shanghai, YVR is a starting or connecting point to many destinations in Asia.

In addition to its great dining options, friendly airport staff, and clean facilities, YVR has one of the world's best and most extensive Wildlife Management Programs, which operates 24/7 to ensure both passenger and wildlife safety near the airport. YVR is situated on Indigenous lands of the Musqueam Indian Band, so the staff at YVR use a multitude of non-lethal ways to capture animals and relocate them, or simply scare them off through specially trained dogs, noisemakers, and other methods, to ensure no harm comes to the animals on Indigenous land. YVR is an airport that keeps its passengers and surrounding wildlife safe, all while making travelers feel comfortable during transit. It might be hard to knock YVR off that No.1 spot next year.