Rochester Airport Ranked Among Nation's Top Ten

The Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport secured ninth place in a national poll of small airports.

Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Air Travel

Rochester Airport Ranked Among Nation's Top Ten

Live Poll

Do you feel better passenger amenities significantly improve your experience when flying through your local airport?

The Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport has been named the ninth best small airport in the 2026 USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. The airport was selected out of a competitive field of 106 small- to medium-sized facilities across the country.

Why it matters

The recognition highlights the airport's recent efforts to enhance the passenger experience through infrastructure upgrades and expanded accessibility. These improvements aim to better serve local travelers by increasing flight options and modernizing terminal facilities.

The airport secured its ranking after completing a $38 million terminal renovation project. The facility also implemented new accessibility features, including hearing loops and support for the Aira ASL app.

The players

Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport

This facility is the primary aviation hub serving the Rochester, New York, region.

The details

Nominees were determined by an expert panel before the public cast votes based on factors like amenities and flight accessibility. The airport now offers travelers perks ranging from free video arcades and children's play areas to the dedicated Frederick Douglass Airfield Observatory.

The airport earned its ninth-place ranking in the 2026 awards cycle.

Travel Outlook

The award process reflects a broader national trend where small- to medium-sized airports are investing in amenities to compete for traveler loyalty against larger hubs. These rankings serve as a barometer for how regional airports are evolving to meet modern service expectations.

Local travelers can now utilize expanded flight routes and updated terminal amenities following the recent $38 million renovation. The addition of new accessibility services ensures that passengers with visual or hearing impairments have enhanced support during their airport visits.

The takeaway

Travelers should look for the airport's new amenities, such as the veteran's area and children's play zones, during their next visit. These additions represent a shift toward making the regional terminal a more comfortable space for all types of passengers.