Airport cleanliness has become a defining factor in the overall passenger experience. Beyond appearance, well-maintained terminals improve traveller comfort, support public health, enhance operational efficiency, and shape an airport’s reputation. As global air travel continues to grow, airports are investing heavily in maintaining high standards across terminals, lounges, washrooms, dining areas, baggage halls, and other public facilities.
The Skytrax World Airport Awards 2026 highlight the airports that have excelled in cleanliness across different regions. While several hubs feature prominently in the global rankings, the regional awards recognise airports that lead their respective markets in maintaining consistently clean and welcoming facilities.
From major international gateways in Asia and Europe to leading airports in Africa, the Americas, and the Pacific, these regional winners demonstrate the highest standards of airport hygiene in 2026.
Africa: Cape Town International Airport (South Africa)
Cape Town International Airport (CPT) is once again recognised as Africa’s cleanest airport. As South Africa’s second-busiest aviation hub, the airport accommodates millions of passengers each year while maintaining consistently high standards throughout its terminals.
Travellers frequently commend the cleanliness of its public spaces, washrooms, waiting lounges, and polished terminal floors. Dedicated housekeeping teams operate throughout the day to ensure facilities remain well maintained despite continuous passenger traffic.
The airport’s spacious design and abundant natural lighting also support efficient maintenance. Retail outlets, restaurants, boarding gates, and passenger lounges consistently reflect the airport’s emphasis on cleanliness, reinforcing Cape Town’s position as one of Africa’s leading aviation gateways.
Asia: Tokyo Haneda Airport (Japan)
Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) continues to set the benchmark for airport cleanliness across Asia. Widely recognised among the world’s leading airports, Haneda combines operational efficiency with meticulous maintenance standards.
Although it serves tens of millions of passengers annually, the airport maintains spotless terminals, immaculate washrooms, polished flooring, and exceptionally clean seating areas. Cleaning personnel work continuously to preserve these standards regardless of passenger volumes.
Attention to detail is evident throughout the airport, from efficient waste management systems to well-maintained signage. Lounges, restaurants, retail areas, baggage claim facilities, and transport connections all reflect the airport’s commitment to cleanliness.
Australia & Pacific: Brisbane Airport (Australia)
Brisbane Airport (BNE) retains its position as the cleanest airport in the Australia and Pacific region.
Its modern terminals, spacious layout, and comprehensive maintenance programmes help deliver a consistently pleasant environment for travellers. Both domestic and international facilities receive positive feedback for clean washrooms, seating areas, and food courts.
The airport also integrates sustainability into its maintenance strategy through environmentally responsible cleaning practices and efficient waste management systems. Even during busy travel periods, Brisbane maintains an organised and fresh terminal environment.
China: Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (China)
Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) ranks as China’s cleanest airport in 2026.
Serving one of the country’s largest metropolitan areas, the airport manages significant domestic and international traffic while maintaining high cleanliness standards across its facilities. Public areas remain well maintained through continuous cleaning operations.
Passengers regularly highlight the condition of washrooms, waiting lounges, food courts, and security screening areas. The airport’s modern layout also supports efficient maintenance, allowing housekeeping teams to respond quickly across the terminal.
Europe: Rome Fiumicino Airport (Italy)
Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) leads Europe in airport cleanliness for 2026.
Extensive terminal modernisation has helped transform the airport into one of Europe’s most highly regarded aviation hubs. Travellers consistently praise its clean terminals, well-maintained public areas, and high-quality washroom facilities.
Despite handling substantial international passenger traffic, Fiumicino maintains impressive standards throughout departure halls, retail zones, lounges, security checkpoints, and baggage claim areas. Its focus on hygiene complements its broader investment in customer experience and modern infrastructure.
Middle East: Bahrain International Airport (Bahrain)
Bahrain International Airport (BAH) remains the cleanest airport in the Middle East.
Following the launch of its new passenger terminal, the airport introduced advanced sanitation procedures, modern cleaning technologies, and enhanced maintenance programmes. These initiatives have helped establish one of the region’s cleanest airport environments.
Passengers regularly praise the spotless marble flooring, clean washrooms, polished seating areas, and well-maintained public spaces. The terminal’s design also supports efficient upkeep throughout daily operations.
North America: Houston Hobby Airport (United States)
Houston Hobby Airport (HOU) ranks as North America’s cleanest airport in 2026.
Unlike many larger airports that face greater maintenance challenges, Houston Hobby benefits from efficient operations and a strong focus on passenger comfort. Its terminals are recognised for being clean, organised, and easy to navigate.
Visitors frequently commend the airport’s tidy washrooms, seating areas, dining facilities, and overall presentation. Continued investment in terminal improvements and maintenance has further strengthened its standing.
South America: Quito International Airport (Ecuador)
Quito International Airport (UIO) earns recognition as South America’s cleanest airport.
Located in Ecuador’s Andes region, the airport serves as an important gateway while maintaining consistently high standards across its passenger facilities. Travellers regularly praise the clean terminals, modern architecture, and well-maintained public spaces.
Housekeeping teams ensure that washrooms, seating areas, security checkpoints, and baggage halls remain clean throughout operating hours, contributing to the airport’s strong reputation among South American hubs.
Central Asia: Almaty International Airport (Kazakhstan)
Almaty International Airport (ALA) is recognised as Central Asia’s cleanest airport in 2026.
As Kazakhstan’s largest airport, Almaty serves as a major connection point between Central Asia, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Investments in terminal upgrades and operational improvements have supported higher cleanliness standards throughout the airport.
Passengers appreciate the organised public spaces, clean washrooms, tidy seating areas, and the overall presentation maintained by housekeeping teams across the terminal.
India & South Asia: Goa Manohar International Airport (India)
Goa Manohar International Airport (GOX) leads the India and South Asia region for cleanliness.
As one of India’s newest major airports, it benefits from modern infrastructure, contemporary architecture, and advanced maintenance systems. Travellers frequently highlight its clean interiors, spotless washrooms, and organised public areas.
The airport has prioritised cleanliness since opening, helping it establish standards comparable with many established international airports while reflecting India’s continued investment in airport infrastructure.
Central America & Caribbean: Punta Cana International Airport (Dominican Republic)
Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) is the cleanest airport in Central America and the Caribbean.
Serving one of the region’s busiest tourism destinations, the airport welcomes millions of international visitors annually. Maintaining high cleanliness standards plays an important role in creating a positive first impression.
Passengers consistently praise the airport’s clean terminals, well-maintained washrooms, tidy waiting areas, and distinctive tropical-inspired architecture. Continuous cleaning operations help maintain these standards during peak travel seasons.
Airport Cleanliness Trends in 2026
Many leading airports are adopting technologies that support higher hygiene standards, including autonomous floor-cleaning robots, touchless washroom facilities, smart waste management systems, and AI-powered maintenance scheduling.
Environmental sustainability is also influencing airport maintenance strategies. Airports are increasingly using eco-friendly cleaning products, water-saving technologies, and energy-efficient maintenance practices.
In addition, many airports have shifted from periodic cleaning schedules to continuous cleaning programmes, helping ensure terminals remain consistently clean throughout the day.
Bottom Line
The Skytrax regional cleanliness awards for 2026 recognise airports that have established the highest standards for hygiene, maintenance, and passenger comfort within their respective regions.
As traveller expectations continue to evolve, these airports demonstrate how consistent cleanliness and efficient facility management contribute to a better overall airport experience.