Hello from Seoul Incheon Airport (ICN), as I continue my review trip to South Korea and Japan (okay, I fell a little behind in publishing this due to the amount of news the past couple of days, but let’s continue full steam ahead)! I arrived from Vancouver in Korean Air’s Boeing 787-10 business class, and am departing for Sapporo in Korean Air’s Airbus 321neo business class.
In this post I wanted to talk about Incheon Airport, South Korea’s largest airport. If you look at lists of the world’s best airports, Incheon pretty much always ranks, typically in the top three (for example, Skytrax ranks it as number three, not that I put much weight on those results).
I’m curious — does everyone else love this airport, or am I the only one who thinks it’s kind of overrated? Let me first share my thoughts on Incheon Airport, and then I also want to acknowledge how highly subjective airport opinions can be.
In this post:
Why Incheon Airport doesn’t impress me much
I don’t want to suggest that Incheon Airport is bad. Quite to the contrary, it’s a solid airport. I just don’t think it’s anywhere close to being the best in the world, personally. I don’t mind transiting the airport, but it’s not an airport I’d voluntarily spend more time in than I have to.
Incheon has two terminals, and they do offer very different experiences. Terminal 1 is the old terminal, and to me, is totally unremarkable. It’s clean and sterile, but the architecture isn’t amazing, and I don’t think there’s any “wow” factor to it.
Meanwhile Terminal 2 is the newer terminal, as it opened in 2018, and it has gorgeous design and architecture. However, architecture alone typically doesn’t give an airport great scores. I mean, several airports in China have amazing architecture, yet don’t make the list of world’s best airports.
What don’t I love about Incheon Airport?
- It’s not the airport’s fault, but the lounges are pretty lousy, and I’d say Korean Air’s are among the worst hub lounges you’ll find of any well respected airline
- For those without lounge access, the food and drink options aren’t impressive, with few sit-down options; there are some basic food courts and Dunkin’ locations, but not much beyond that
- I’ve consistently experienced long immigration lines at Incheon; this time around, I had to wait for almost an hour
- I don’t think the terminals are well designed in terms of passenger flow, getting between gates, and crowding in the central parts of the terminal, due to there not being enough “spokes,” especially in Terminal 2
Again, let me emphasize that I’m not trying to trash the airport. I think it’s solid. I just don’t think it’s the best, and it’s the highest rated airport that I’m not interested in spending more time in than I have to.
Now, to be balanced, let me state some things I believe the airport does well:
- The airport is quite clean, including the bathrooms
- There’s free Wi-Fi that’s easy to connect to
- While perhaps a bit of a gimmick, it’s cute how there’s a Korean culture zone, where you can even try on clothing and see performances
- There’s “transfer lounge,” which has some comfortable seating, and a room where you can stretch
For those who do love the airport, I’d love to hear what I’m missing, or how your impression differed from mine.
“Best” airport rankings are highly subjective
I’ve shared what I consider to be the world’s best airports. I don’t claim that anyone else should agree with me, but those are the airports I most enjoy traveling through. I guess what I’m realizing is that the airports on my list are also places that I really enjoy spending time, regardless of whether or not I have lounge access.
For example, at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), you can drop me off at the Sky Bridge and leave me… forever. Just let my family know where they can find me, please. 😉 The airport also has beautiful architecture, so much natural light, and some of the world’s best lounges, like Cathay Pacific’s The Pier Lounge.
At Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), The Jewel is simply on a completely different level. Even airside, the airport has everything from a movie theater, to a butterfly garden. I’ve also never waited at immigration, there are some world class lounges, etc.
Doha Hamad International Airport (DOH) has improved so nicely in recent years, and is probably now my favorite airport. The design is amazing (like The Orchard), the lounges are phenomenal, the shopping is endless, and the variety of sit-down restaurants and cafes is basically unrivaled.
People could easily transit any of the above airports and have a vastly different experience or impression. For example, Doha Hamad is a heavily banked hub, and if you’re passing through with a short connection during one of the busiest periods, and you end up arriving at and departing from a remote stand, you’d understandably probably not be very impressed.
Similarly, if you’re just briefly transiting Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 1, you’d probably wonder what all the fuss is about.
Bottom line
I’ve traveled through both terminals at Incheon Airport in recent months, and while they’re pleasant enough, I don’t really want to spend more time at either airport than I have to. Terminal 2 has much nicer architecture than Terminal 1, but still, I find the airport lacking when it comes to amenities that really give it the edge.
What’s your take on Incheon Airport — do you think it deserves to be ranked among the top three in the world, or is it a bit overrated?
I have four hours to kill at Incheon....any suggestions?
I am Korean and currently living in China as an expatriate. I frequently travel within Asia, both domestically and internationally. I fully agree that the architectural design of an airport should not be the sole criterion for evaluating its quality.
From my perspective, Incheon International Airport (ICN) excels in cleanliness, and the speed of immigration and security processes is much faster than at many other airports in Asia, regardless of your nationality.
However, there...
I am Korean and currently living in China as an expatriate. I frequently travel within Asia, both domestically and internationally. I fully agree that the architectural design of an airport should not be the sole criterion for evaluating its quality.
From my perspective, Incheon International Airport (ICN) excels in cleanliness, and the speed of immigration and security processes is much faster than at many other airports in Asia, regardless of your nationality.
However, there are areas for improvement. Firstly, there is a lack of restaurants offering good value for money and lounges are totally not enough. Secondly, the resting zones are mostly located on the second floor, and there are not enough signs to guide people to these areas. Additionally, airport staff could benefit from being more welcoming, as they are often the first Koreans that foreigners encounter upon arrival. But as Korean, I can tell you that while Koreans may not have as big smiles as Thai people due to cultural differences, these staffs are still polite and kind.
Recently, ICN has introduced separate areas for smoking and vaping. This is a creative idea that I have not seen at other airports in Asia so far.
Totally agree with your review here Ben.
Transited through ICN a few times myself.
Functional and clean airport though nothing remarkable and the lounge quality was abysmal.
i've traveled in and out of ICN 50+ times and never had to wait more than 5 minutes for immigration passport control. but the security line for departures has been growing. everything else, this airport is amazing and a solid 2nd in the world after Changi
10 year resident here and you missed a ton. They have a movie theater of course and also a maglev train for free to nearby casinos and hotels. Yes u need to leave security but there are way more options and since they are pu lic prices stay reasonable. I mean you talking about a long layover so what's another 10 min at security. For immigration I will admit recently they are struggling to hire...
10 year resident here and you missed a ton. They have a movie theater of course and also a maglev train for free to nearby casinos and hotels. Yes u need to leave security but there are way more options and since they are pu lic prices stay reasonable. I mean you talking about a long layover so what's another 10 min at security. For immigration I will admit recently they are struggling to hire enough people. That said u can cut time in half by getting the express checkin app that even non residents can use. Is it as posh as Singapore, no but they also are a city state with one airport to take care of. Korea has at least 4 major airports and another half dozen regional ones. I would also bet ICN has more non stops than Singapore.
The movie theater (CGV in T1) is long closed and replaced by some random digital art exhibition thing and the maglev is closed since Covid and will not reopen as such ;)
This is the worst airpory business class lounge I have ever been. The fiod is the worst, caters only to koreans. Nuff said.
The Korean obsession with rankings contributes to some aspects of various things in Korea becoming overrated. The Korean government actively promotes ICN as being the best in the world. Korean people are told endlessly that ICN is the best in the world, and as Koreans visit Europe and America, they naturally see old and rundown looking airports built in the 50s or 60s and think ‘wow Incheon is amazing’. It is worth noting that the...
The Korean obsession with rankings contributes to some aspects of various things in Korea becoming overrated. The Korean government actively promotes ICN as being the best in the world. Korean people are told endlessly that ICN is the best in the world, and as Koreans visit Europe and America, they naturally see old and rundown looking airports built in the 50s or 60s and think ‘wow Incheon is amazing’. It is worth noting that the Korean government got caught paying a fake NGO millions of dollars to have Jeju island designed as ‘the Eighth Wonder of the world’ as an illustration of how obsessed they are with rankings, even when they are fake or don’t matter. ICN is basically a large indoor shopping mall with the same four shops copy pasted everywhere. It should be commended for its cleanliness and modernity however. I was recently at SFO and there was actual food trash littering the carpet of more than one terminal, and three hours passed with not a single cleaning person appearing. It even smelled bad. So Incheon does seem like paradise when compared to such experiences.
Spot on review. I used ICN maybe 20 times and the ridiculous immigration lines (I was also almost close to 1 hour recently) which they clearly refuse to address, and the poor quality of lounges stand out for me. Also getting through security is always slow - and no option for business class passengers to fast track. Always found that hard to believe in an asian airport; contrast to Bangkok where less than 5 minutes...
Spot on review. I used ICN maybe 20 times and the ridiculous immigration lines (I was also almost close to 1 hour recently) which they clearly refuse to address, and the poor quality of lounges stand out for me. Also getting through security is always slow - and no option for business class passengers to fast track. Always found that hard to believe in an asian airport; contrast to Bangkok where less than 5 minutes sees you go from drop off to lounge in business class.
Going back to the immigration line up; the 1 hour I mentioned is spent in a snaking line with literally hundreds if not thousands of passengers from many airlines. It is in a very stuffy area with very little air flow. Anyone who has been there will know what I mean. Now Korea in general, and ICN, make a big deal of declaring any cold/flu symptoms, they are famous for testing, tracking and tracing disease, and so on. So this huge mass of people packed in together lining up for 1 hour is so paradoxical - it is a breeding ground for exchange of viruses, with ho hope of tracking. How can a country be so serious and advanced in medical approaches, yet the major airport operate in stark contrast to this. Again, black mark for ICN.
The executives managing ICN could, and should, make this airport so much better.
Them executives won't do anything to really improve things until there shamed into it
I flew in and out of Inchon in the 1990's for business. It was a sterile enviroment as was Seoul. But always clean and operated well. No complaints. Seoul was a different place, but one could appreciate their culture and customs. For example, all cars on the road were dark, grey or blue. Almost all driving were men and only Korean cars. If the car was black, it was the car of a boss.
All...
I flew in and out of Inchon in the 1990's for business. It was a sterile enviroment as was Seoul. But always clean and operated well. No complaints. Seoul was a different place, but one could appreciate their culture and customs. For example, all cars on the road were dark, grey or blue. Almost all driving were men and only Korean cars. If the car was black, it was the car of a boss.
All in all it was fun.
Recently flew from Newark Airport (NYC area). I would rate that as one of the worst in my last 20 years.
They seem to finally be complete with terminal construction, once you get thru to the gate area, there was nothing but none branded shops including food. Not nice.
Plus they moved the car rental terminal farther away, and even if you take the tram, you still must walk another 500 hundred meters to get to the rental area.
Really disappointed with it. Sorry NJ.
Incheon didn’t open until 2001. You were flying in and out of Gimpo in the nineties. That’s still there and no where near Incheon.
It didn't open until 2002, perhaps you're referring to Gimpo?
I would say that favourite airport does not equate to best airport. And favourite will serve a different purpose depending on how you travel on a particular trip.
I love London Heathrow because it serves my purpose for the majority of my flying needs but I can’t call it the best in the world. It works for me. As Ben says, it’s subjective.
I have only connected there so I can't comment on the front of the house . It seems like they have been remodeling something in the terminal for the past few years. Security is a breeze to me . The limited food options late night/ early morning connection flight should be way better. Not many places open during those hours . But for me as long as I can clear security and get to my...
I have only connected there so I can't comment on the front of the house . It seems like they have been remodeling something in the terminal for the past few years. Security is a breeze to me . The limited food options late night/ early morning connection flight should be way better. Not many places open during those hours . But for me as long as I can clear security and get to my gate in a reasonable time I am good . The toilets are always clean and the water bottle refill stations are nice . As mentioned the WiFi is good and they have charging in the terminal at the gate seats . Be careful and stay safe.
Avid travelers know better than to pay any attention to "Top 10" lists. These lists are usually curated by idiots who don't even travel, but rather get all of their information from social media or a few Google searches. At best, the author may have been to a couple destinations, which by default rise to the top of their list.
Absolutely agree !
I flew Korean Air to Kunming China and had a 24+hour layover. KAL put me up in a nice Hyatt Hotel near the airport. Incheon Airport offered and I took a free tour into Seoul. It was a 5 hour guided tour and very nice. We visited a temple and had lunch in downtown Seoul. My experience was a good one. Also on the return I stayed in the transfer hotel in the terminal to get some rest before the red eye flights back to Honolulu. Nice place to rest up, shower.
I'd love to see a post ranking the top major US airports (and maybe also the bottom). For me, SFO is now #1, with the T1 renovations complete and all gates being connected behind security (coupled with pretty good lounge options and spacious gate areas). A recent flight on AS from SFO T1 (gorgeous) to ORD's T2 (opened in 1962, and it shows) displayed both ends of the US airport spectrum pretty well for me.
Agree, SFO T1 looks very nice! I love their fill your bottle stations. Too bad my hometown airport - It's you SEA! - looks like a dump!
lmao if this was in Japan there would be hundreds of those retarded Tiktokesque reels with "jaPaN iS liViNg iN 2050" captions for a freaking water fountain or the most basic crap they can find
This.
It's awesome for some, overrated for others.
Off topic, but will Lucky be attempting SAS's million miles promotion deal?
Admittedly, I've never been through ICN so I have only photos to go by. What strikes me is that, while the main terminal ticketing/departure area is archetecturally striking, the airside concourse looks a bit narrow and claustrophobic. For some reason, MIA comes to mind. And any time you're compared with MIA, it's not a compliment.
I think HKG is simply the best airport in Asia. No complaints.
Great natural light and a sense of airiness, and their Sky Bridge is easily my favorite amenity any airport has. Book layovers longer than I need there all the time
At the bottom of the Asian airport hierarchy are Chinese airports which, though designed by architectural superstars, are somewhat lacking as far as services and amenities go. At the top is superlative Singapore Changi with its overflowing excellent services and amenities. And then there's ICN, which occupies that weird middle ground: adequate services and amenities, very clean, comfortable, a little boring, no standout or "WOW" factor. I never could comprehend how it ranked as one...
At the bottom of the Asian airport hierarchy are Chinese airports which, though designed by architectural superstars, are somewhat lacking as far as services and amenities go. At the top is superlative Singapore Changi with its overflowing excellent services and amenities. And then there's ICN, which occupies that weird middle ground: adequate services and amenities, very clean, comfortable, a little boring, no standout or "WOW" factor. I never could comprehend how it ranked as one of the world's best airports. It's good without being great. Now having said all that, I'd still take it over LAX, ORD, SFO, SEA, ATL, HNL, EWR, JFK and LGA in a heartbeat!
Absolutely agree. I currently live in Seoul and never understand why ICN is highly ranked. Lounges are meh. Lack of decent restaurants to eat or non luxury places to shop (compared to Changi) really put it low on thevlait for me. Immigration lines are always long and terminals could be better designed for easy access to gates. It is easy to transit through so that may help the rankings.
Useful comments here about ICN. I'm planning a Asian trip to several countries next spring and was going to have a 24 stopover in Seoul, but these comments are putting me off. I thought LAX had bad Immigration queues, but ICN seems even worse.
Don't worry too much. I have never experienced more than 15-20 mins at ICN (and that is rare). USA is the most awful place in the world for immigration and they shouldn't be compared. Last time at MIA 2.5 hours and last time at ORD 2 hours. ICN can be slow by Asian standards but certainly not by US standard. 24 hour stopover definitely worthwhile.
Fwiw, I've had equally bad or worse cues at hnd and nrt over the last 2 yrs (worse for midmorning arrival time). Up to 95 mins to exit passport control + customs.
When I was there last year, I was maybe 10-15 minutes in the immigration queue? Nothing compared to experiences I've had at NYC airports. Really enjoyed Seoul, so absolutely wouldn't be deterred by that.
I would agree here. When I first passed through ICN in 2008 it was a doddle but recently more time consuming. What makes a good airport to me is ease of departure and ease of transit. The rest is just bells and whistles.
For ease of departure NCL is the best I have come across in the world (although biased as it is my local airport). Very rarely queue for more than 5 mins for...
I would agree here. When I first passed through ICN in 2008 it was a doddle but recently more time consuming. What makes a good airport to me is ease of departure and ease of transit. The rest is just bells and whistles.
For ease of departure NCL is the best I have come across in the world (although biased as it is my local airport). Very rarely queue for more than 5 mins for security but average is around 30-60 seconds when I fly (without fast-track). Fully set up with new CT scanning machines so no liquid limit (although this was recently blocked in the U.K.) and no need to remove liquids or electronics or anything. Generally takes around 3 mins from arrival at door to being sat down in departures.
For transit, I am a big fan of MUC which has a seamless transit experience and makes a 30 min connection very easy.
When it comes to the bells and whistles, it is hard to beat SIN
How to make an airport overrated but convinced as among best in the world?
Some nice water fountain, butterflies, and a movie theater.
Seriously have any you ever seen the condition of the theater, or the actual butterfly garden?
How many is really useful?
Who would go 4 hours early to watch a movie or see a butterfly?
Would you visit the Jewel for the 2nd time after you have all those...
How to make an airport overrated but convinced as among best in the world?
Some nice water fountain, butterflies, and a movie theater.
Seriously have any you ever seen the condition of the theater, or the actual butterfly garden?
How many is really useful?
Who would go 4 hours early to watch a movie or see a butterfly?
Would you visit the Jewel for the 2nd time after you have all those Instagram pics of yourself?
Then the immigration lines. Well if you county doesn't have many jobs to plunder or areas to hide plus a very draconian punishment from an authoritarian regime and crazy cost of living. There's not many potential immigrants to worry about.
I Have to agree. I last transited through SIN years ago (before the Jewel). I was looking forward to it from all the reports and then wondering "is this all there is?" After seeing the movie theater and butterfly lounge. The movie theater was basically a sort-of dark room with a projector and a dozen chairs. No one was in there and after a few minutes I left too. Same with the butterfly garden. Once...
I Have to agree. I last transited through SIN years ago (before the Jewel). I was looking forward to it from all the reports and then wondering "is this all there is?" After seeing the movie theater and butterfly lounge. The movie theater was basically a sort-of dark room with a projector and a dozen chairs. No one was in there and after a few minutes I left too. Same with the butterfly garden. Once you walk through once (which takes a about 15 minutes) there's really no reason to do it again.
I suppose they're better than nothing. And SIN isn't a *bad* airport but I feel about it the way Ben feels about ICN: decent at doing what it has to do (get you in, get you out) but nothing really special.
You need to review BLR T2. You could review the A350 longhaul (JFK-DEL), and then the ex-DL B777 on AI’s longest flight (BLR-SFO) on that trip.
It’s interesting to hear your take on Incheon Airport! I’ve had a similar experience with Terminal 1, feeling it was functional but not remarkable. Terminal 2's architecture is stunning, but I agree that the amenities could be better. The long immigration lines and limited food options really stood out to me too.
TOTALLY overrated. In my opinion worst airport in the world with horrible lines for security and immigration on both departures and arrivals. Lounges are terrible.
Have you been to Manila?
Have you ever been in MEX, especially in T1?
The thing I find most underwhelming about ICN is the lounges of Korean and Asiana.
Given that ICN is the home of both carriers you’d assume the location of their ‘flagship’ lounges yet they are about as basic as you can get.
I had the same feeling but with DTW and MSP.
Few dozen long haul international flights daily, 2 shower rooms combined.
That being said I don't think KE OZ lounges are in any way as bad as people feel. It's just way too crowded and lacks privacy or space.
And to all those Hyatt fanboys, KE lounges are catered by Grand Hyatt.
I am not impressed with Incheon airport. I typically fly through there 2-4 times a year. Transit security is often slow, especially within terminal 2. I have waited in excess of an hour twice and was at risk of missing a flight in one case. I complained to a Korean Airlines employee that finally helped expedite the process. Transferring between terminals is actually much faster because there is not much wait. Terminal 2 is also...
I am not impressed with Incheon airport. I typically fly through there 2-4 times a year. Transit security is often slow, especially within terminal 2. I have waited in excess of an hour twice and was at risk of missing a flight in one case. I complained to a Korean Airlines employee that finally helped expedite the process. Transferring between terminals is actually much faster because there is not much wait. Terminal 2 is also seriously lacking many food options if you do not have lounge access.
T1 also have the same issue with security. But you don't feel as bad on transit because KE bank is much bigger than OZ.
But I agree, T2 has worse non lounge food options than T1 especially non Asian food. Starbucks and Dunkin are probably the only global chains in T2 and those are not for a meal.
Retail has overwhelmed the terminal too much.
The worst part is it's not even good retail at ICN. Do that many people really buy high end luxury goods at the airport. Give me a regular store any day to buy a quick change of clothes for me or my kids and I'd spend way more money than at a Dior or Gucci.
When I flew from ICN T2, I found a wallet with money and ID card lying on the floor at the checkin line of Korean economy. I don’t know how many hundreds of people passed by it (I think there was close to 100 passengers before me) but when I picked it up and handed over to the checkin staff, they looked at me in horror not because someone may be in trouble, but because...
When I flew from ICN T2, I found a wallet with money and ID card lying on the floor at the checkin line of Korean economy. I don’t know how many hundreds of people passed by it (I think there was close to 100 passengers before me) but when I picked it up and handed over to the checkin staff, they looked at me in horror not because someone may be in trouble, but because they did not seem to know what to do with it. When my turn came to check in, I enquired what happened to the wallet and if they were able to hand it to the passenger before their departed on their flight - surely it is easy to type the name from the ID in their system and see on which same they flight the person checked in and deliver to gate or even onboard. To my disbelief they said they don’t do it, they simply hand it to the airport’s lost and founds and it is the passenger’s responsibility to claim it. I mean for other items fine, but for a wallet with your ID and cash! Now I was the one in horror. Like you said, an unremarkable airport with the lack of basis courtesy/service in an area where it absolutely counts!
I totally agree, it's above average, but not a "best" list for sure. My biggest issue with ICN airport is the distance between terminal 1 and 2 on the outside. One time my mom was dropped off at T1 and it took a 20 minute taxi ride to get to the other terminal.
If you think ICN terminals are unremarkable, you should try Gimpo airport. =(
Admittedly, my ICN experiences have been clouded by KE's inability or unwillingness to operate on time.
Terminal 2 is being expanded expanded with two additional concourses, essentially extensions of the current ones.
Overrated: agree about long immigration and poor lounges. It took me a long time to also transfer between gates which led to missed connection on Korean Air. On positive side, not much wait for taking off or landing.
I would add Haneda as an efficient airport (yet unglamorous).
The first time at ICN I transited & wondered why is this considered one of the world's best airports? The second time at ICN it was my destination. Departing I passed many lovely restaurants and shops, all landside, and realized this is the reason ICN has high marks. However, these are inaccessible to transit passengers or passengers who want to be airside before dining/shopping.
I have to agree. It's a good airport but nothing special. I was in a hotel close to terminal 1 and had a early flight from terminal 2. It is ridiculously far from terminal 1, I almost missed my flight (also because of the long immigration lines)
You are calling a display of othee cultures "gimmick"s? You entitled and ignorant puck. Show some respect. Let's get this American entitlement at display with made in China MAGA hats and bibles at airports.
The entire article is based on the premise that Skytrax is something you live and die by. Someone like you should know better. And no offense, like the other commentors have provided, there are ways to avoid long lines. What about exits? You didn't even talk about how fast you can clear out of Korea.
Not to mention, ICN is absolutely nowhere close to Seoul — in fact, at a whopping 60+ km west from the city, it’s one of the furthest Asian airports from the city centre. Kuala Lumpur is the only other major Asian metropolis whose primary airport is so far (55+ km south) and which, unlike Tokyo, doesn’t have the luxury of a closer-by city airport for longhaul travel.
And I do not, at all, understand Ben’s love for DOH. Sit-down cafés unrivalled?!?!
DOH is definitely better than DXB, but definitely not the best, and there's a strong case that AUH could work better for most people's needs with the new terminal. The endless remote gates at DOH are a real PITA for many passengers that I don't think they can make up for, especially in the desert weather you get in the Middle East in summer....
Because the airport is literally named Incheon, where it is located.
Just like Narita, where it is located.
But I don't see you b**ch about NRT, PKX, or even MXP, which doesn't even say it's in Varese.
Nor did you say anything about OAK EWR BWI attaching to a different metro area.
Heck even Bangalore might get an airport that's not even in the same state too. Let's see how they name...
Because the airport is literally named Incheon, where it is located.
Just like Narita, where it is located.
But I don't see you b**ch about NRT, PKX, or even MXP, which doesn't even say it's in Varese.
Nor did you say anything about OAK EWR BWI attaching to a different metro area.
Heck even Bangalore might get an airport that's not even in the same state too. Let's see how they name it.
Take your own word of wisdom if you think the airport is too far.
"visualise yourself flying DCA or MEX or DXB or something of that kind! ;)"
@Eskimo
If you didn't know yet, VT-CIE is just a common Indian Japanophile.
Him b**ching about any slight discomfort in/of Korea shouldn't come as a surprise.
I’ll have you know that I have great respect for how the Koreans have managed to maintain two global airlines and a globally enviable air transportation hub for the past two decades and more, after a turbulent period in the 1990s with too many crashes and other woes. What ICN has become is a symbol of pride for the Korean nation; it doesn’t have to match Changi or Haneda or HKG, and remains perfectly pleasant....
I’ll have you know that I have great respect for how the Koreans have managed to maintain two global airlines and a globally enviable air transportation hub for the past two decades and more, after a turbulent period in the 1990s with too many crashes and other woes. What ICN has become is a symbol of pride for the Korean nation; it doesn’t have to match Changi or Haneda or HKG, and remains perfectly pleasant. My only complaint was its distance from the city of Seoul, though of course it’s next door to Incheon.
It’s a universal fact that KE and OZ fall short compared to Taiwanese, Japanese and, yes, Singaporean airlines and CX, as noted by DWT down below. That doesn’t mean that KE and OZ are as bad as Mainland Chinese airlines. For comparison, I, and many others, think of Taiwanese and Japanese airlines as equivalent to EY and QR, and Korean ones as equivalent to Oman Air or Gulf Air, certainly not to less-reputed ones like Egyptair or MEA.
TL;DR: Small quibbles do not derail South Korea’s otherwise excellent airlines and airport; it’s just that Japan, Taiwan and Singapore are objectively among the very best out there, and Korea is only just a bit short.
Yeah, Gimpo doesn't have much to offer in amenities, but it's right by the city, so I always choose Gimpo when I can. It's a shame that Incheon is the only option for intercontinental flights.
I just transited there earlier this year arriving on KL from Sydney and the first slap on the face was that they parked at remote location and transfered us by bus. No separate business class bus either and as we approached the terminal a bunch of empty gates could be seen. As we entered the terminal it was immediately apparent the AC was not functioning and sure enough the entire terminal was steamy and uncomfortable,...
I just transited there earlier this year arriving on KL from Sydney and the first slap on the face was that they parked at remote location and transfered us by bus. No separate business class bus either and as we approached the terminal a bunch of empty gates could be seen. As we entered the terminal it was immediately apparent the AC was not functioning and sure enough the entire terminal was steamy and uncomfortable, not sure what happened there. The last slap in the face was indeed the KL lounge, packed, gross with kids running around and food on the floor. Totally and cempletely overrated airport and just bring into focus that only the Middle East airport know how best to do an airport experience.
It would be more premium if Delta merged with KE and took over the whole operation!
Having transited at Incheon as an economy class passenger a few times (pre Covid) I actually find incheon really good for a few reasons:
1. There are publicly available free showers that anyone can use. It’s quite basic but still nice, and they provided everything that’s needed- towels and toiletries.
2. For longer transit times they have a very affordable transit hotel in the airside, with proper rooms with ensuite bathrooms at a...
Having transited at Incheon as an economy class passenger a few times (pre Covid) I actually find incheon really good for a few reasons:
1. There are publicly available free showers that anyone can use. It’s quite basic but still nice, and they provided everything that’s needed- towels and toiletries.
2. For longer transit times they have a very affordable transit hotel in the airside, with proper rooms with ensuite bathrooms at a around 150 USD for like 6-7 hours if I remember correctly.
3. There’s a free to access snooze zone with dim lighting and lounging seats for people to sleep quietly.
These are the things that were hard to find in most other airports.
That transit hotel always seems to be lacking in capacity though... keep hearing about it being sold out
They have Washlets in the airport bathrooms -- even the normal ones outside of the lounges. Definitely wish all airports did!
What is a washlet?
Japanese-style bidet seat
I don't disagree with anything you've said, @Ben, except the immigration queues - I've never had a line/wait that long in my over a decade using/transiting the airport multiple times each year. And I REALLY don't disagree with your assessment of the KE lounges...oy...even the First Class lounge is sad. All this being said, for a transit airport, I love ICN, and I think that's really what it is built for: it's not trying to...
I don't disagree with anything you've said, @Ben, except the immigration queues - I've never had a line/wait that long in my over a decade using/transiting the airport multiple times each year. And I REALLY don't disagree with your assessment of the KE lounges...oy...even the First Class lounge is sad. All this being said, for a transit airport, I love ICN, and I think that's really what it is built for: it's not trying to be an entertainment/cultural/hospitality center like SIN, nor does it have the "final stop" traffic/tourist numbers like BKK or HND...so I don't see ICN as an airport necessarily meant to showcase its location/home country (or national airline...) the way other of the more flashy Asia airports do.
Completely agree. I’m in ICN several times a year and immigration is often long lines, and T2 security/immigration on departure often is pretty long/slow also. Very mediocre airport. KAL lounges are lousy too.
Agree with the whole immigration line issue. Always a long wait, and a real bummer when you just flew 12+ hours to get there and then you have the immigration line waiting.
Taxis are tricky too, depending on time of arrival; we had a long wait in some windy/rainy weather while trying to get a taxi (even with the taxi helpers doing what they do).
Ben, when you visit ICN next time, please try Seoul Station City Airport Terminal. You can check-in and clear passport control at the city terminal in Seoul Station, take AREX train to ICN, and clear the security screening lane dedicated to the city airport terminal passengers. It's the only way to clear security screening at ICN in 5 minutes.
Not many non-Koreans know about this trick. It'll totally change your experience. You can use...
Ben, when you visit ICN next time, please try Seoul Station City Airport Terminal. You can check-in and clear passport control at the city terminal in Seoul Station, take AREX train to ICN, and clear the security screening lane dedicated to the city airport terminal passengers. It's the only way to clear security screening at ICN in 5 minutes.
Not many non-Koreans know about this trick. It'll totally change your experience. You can use city airport terminal when flying Asiana, Korean Air, Lufthansa, T'way, Air Seoul, Air Busan, Eastar Jet and Jin Air. Maybe you can find an award flight on Lufthansa(ICN-FRA/MUC) and use it.
For more info about the city airport terminal, take a look at their website:
https://www.arex.or.kr/content.do?url=&menuNo=MN201503300000000026&contentNo=&clientLocale=en_US&clientDevice=Normal
Helpful. Thanks.
The security screening lane of ICN got a lot worse than before. The previous government of South Korea was leftist, and they turned all the security staffs to full-time. Consequently, the operating cost of the airport skyrocketed and now they're terribly understaffed. With full-time employees only(but the budget's the same!), the airport can't support the staffing they used to have with contractors and part-timers.
The security staffs are under pressure because of understaffing, and...
The security screening lane of ICN got a lot worse than before. The previous government of South Korea was leftist, and they turned all the security staffs to full-time. Consequently, the operating cost of the airport skyrocketed and now they're terribly understaffed. With full-time employees only(but the budget's the same!), the airport can't support the staffing they used to have with contractors and part-timers.
The security staffs are under pressure because of understaffing, and they're getting more and more rude. The wait time's also a lot longer than before.
Imagine giving any deference to ScamTrax ratings.
ICN is fine as an airport, it's certainly far better than a lot of other Asian airports. For example, CGK and DPS stress me out so much.
The real issue with ICN is how far it is from the city center. It can take up to two hours to get to your hotel after a 11+ hour flight. And the fact that domestic connections are not a thing....
Imagine giving any deference to ScamTrax ratings.
ICN is fine as an airport, it's certainly far better than a lot of other Asian airports. For example, CGK and DPS stress me out so much.
The real issue with ICN is how far it is from the city center. It can take up to two hours to get to your hotel after a 11+ hour flight. And the fact that domestic connections are not a thing. Going to Jeju or Busan? You need to transfer airports and go to GMP. This probably really kills off a ton of Korea tourism and travel with the lack of domestic connections.
Perhaps its time that Korea should start considering a dual hub strategy like NRT/HND. JAL/ANA at least have a few frequencies to important domestic hubs like CTS, NGO, ITM, etc.
There are domestic connections but treated as international. So flying eg LAX ICN PUS is for international transfer connections only. You clear immigration collect bags and customs at Busan.
There's like 2 domestic connections out of ICN. NRT at least covers almost everywhere in Japan, either via mainline or LCCs
Did you get the ICN Smart Pass app?
Clearly not the world's third best airport, more like to an airport to Asian standards.
What I can't stand with this airport, though is its staff - very hostile and unwilling to help passengers. Even Korean McDonald's employees were friendlier than ICN staff.
Also, given that you've mentioned DOH as one of the best airports in the world, I'm not sure if that's really the case.
I mean, it is a good airport, and probably better than ICN. But the airport has some problems - the traffic and the number of passengers are quite far from the airport's capacity, frequent flyer status-accessible lounges are pretty bad, and the gates are just weird - they lock up the passengers...
Also, given that you've mentioned DOH as one of the best airports in the world, I'm not sure if that's really the case.
I mean, it is a good airport, and probably better than ICN. But the airport has some problems - the traffic and the number of passengers are quite far from the airport's capacity, frequent flyer status-accessible lounges are pretty bad, and the gates are just weird - they lock up the passengers in a closed gate area without toilets and water fountain for no reason (unlike the other airports with similar system, DOH doesn't do any security checks at the gate).
At this point, I like AUH Terminal A more than DOH.
I think people like DOH because it means you're 99% a QR passenger and they have great lounges at DOH. I don't know that DOH is that great of an airport itself.
I've traveled to ICN many times - both new and terminal. I agree, not great. And the Korean Airline lounges and food are mediocre. I would much prefer to transit at SIN, DOH etc.
Just to let you know they have a renovation planned for Terminal 1. But I agree, it's a bit overrated. I think it's the layout, amenities (or lack thereof).
I personally find Japanese airports to be underrated. They might be minimalist, but they are functional.
I fully agree, had similar thoughts. Though the airport it's not bad, nothing to be excited about. I'd add long security check queues and some parts of the terminal are dim and unpleasent
Definitely overrated. Nothing much at ICN.
@Ben - Unrelated topic. Hope you and family are safe and sound.
It's a DieTeam hub. It shouldn't be rated at all. Stinks of kimchi and Delta.
The way you act like is pretty much the opposite of Tim Dunn, obsessed with United and Star Alliance, mock Delta and SkyTeam every time...
Stinks of kimchi? Maybe it's your upper lip, racist prick.
As a Korean myself I find it more funny than offensive. Very edgy, indeed.
I can't stand the smell of kimchi. Or Delta. Or Republicans. And what's it to you if I'm racist? I am racist. I'm against the human race.
I don't know what you're talking about, as ICN doesn't smell like kimchi at all. I'm not a fan of kimchi either, so I think I would have noticed it too, but I didn't. Have you looked into what might be causing these phantom smells for you?
It's Democrats who ruined the entire United States. If you're gonna deny, just see it for yourself at the status of NYC or any liberal cities in the US and if they're a sh*thole or not.
FKH.
Yeah, I guess that's why there are no tourists in nyc aye? smh...you Republicans just can't say the quiet part aloud: that you hate present-day USA bc it's no longer dominated by whites. And I'm white so don't tell me I don't know what I'm talking about
Guess it's true that phantosmia can be a symptom of head injuries.
And ORD stinks of stale mop water. Your point?
Way overrated. Too much walking for things that should be closer together
Incheon is an average Asian airport; there are quite a few better ones, there are quite a few worse ones.
Changi is the world's most overrated airport. Gate security is terrible, and no it's not faster than centralized security: look at HKG, centralized security means they can invest way more in the machines, and you don't need to take a single thing out of your bag, making the lines go very quickly.
Totally agree about Changi. Also can't stand the carpet. Give me La Guardia Terminal B over Changi any day (but with the same airlines and service inflight flying out of it!)
Changi is also a PITA to get to/from via MRT during rush hour, esp. if you're heading to or from downtown in peak direction. Kind of amazing that Singapore hasn't built an express train to City Hall or Raffles Place.
ICN has the rudest employees I've encountered in an airport setting, save for maybe LGA in the 90s.
The nice thing about ICN is that the employees are rude to Koreans too, so at least it isn’t racism
Agree that gate security is a monumental PITA. Just do it centrally, immediately after immigration, and it's over without adding more stress to the already stressful boarding process.
That + the lack of seats before the security check, given the security-at-the-gate only opens pretty close to departure sometimes. Doesn't affect us as much flying premium cabins, but you see people forced to sit on the ground in front of their gate with every seat outside the gate full in a so-called world class airport because security hasn't opened yet and almost all the seats are past the security at the gate
This is a great recent video from Architectural Digest explaining, from an architect's point of view, what makes a great airport.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XVK6urfqqsg
Sadly both the Korean Airlines and Asiana lounges at ICN are pretty mediocre. It’s easy to group a lot of the Asian airlines together, but it’s clear the Korean ones aren’t in the same league as the Japanese and Taiwanese airlines, CX and SQ
ICN is the only first world airport that I’ve been where the immigration and security lines cause you to actually have to arrive at an airport 3 hours early. Last time I was there, there were so many people late for their flight and the airport staff had to help them jump to the front of the line. I avoid that place like the plague now.
When you happen to visit Seoul next time, please try Seoul Station City Airport Terminal. You can check-in and clear passport control at the terminal in Seoul Station, take AREX train to ICN, and clear the security screening lane dedicated to the city airport terminal passengers. It's the only way to clear security screening at ICN in 5 minutes.
Even if you're staying in Incheon, travel to Seoul station, check-in and clear immigration at...
When you happen to visit Seoul next time, please try Seoul Station City Airport Terminal. You can check-in and clear passport control at the terminal in Seoul Station, take AREX train to ICN, and clear the security screening lane dedicated to the city airport terminal passengers. It's the only way to clear security screening at ICN in 5 minutes.
Even if you're staying in Incheon, travel to Seoul station, check-in and clear immigration at the city airport terminal and travel back to ICN. It'll actually be a lot faster than taking the normal lane at ICN.
ONLY if you're flying Korean or Asiana, how can you omit this 'minor' detail?
I’m shocked you haven’t gotten yourself an APEC business Travel.Card. Saves huge amount of time at immigration in APEC countries.
I personally agree whole heartedly with you on how shitty ICN is for such a new airport terminal. The KAL are appalling with even better Priority Pass lounges
Possibly lost on Ben, but one of the highlights of flying out of ICN is checking out the beautiful flight attendants making their way to their planes.
Blud got his priorities...
Recently departed from Terminal 1 at ICN. Was surprised at slow/inefficient immigration/security (passport/boarding pass line even stopped periodically to allow security screeners to catch up). Food options at OneWorld lounge were also so-so. But overall airport seemed okay.
I like Frankfurt
Actually I love it
Changi airport isn't all that nice. Like, I wouldn't even rank it in my top 5 US airports.
It's not particularly efficient to get through- the layout really only works if you're originating/departing. The lounges are fine but you'll find better ones in... oh, say LaGuardia.
Worst of all though you go through security at the gate, which means you're stuck in a tiny cramped holding pen, and that makes flight delays very not-fun.
Up until the recent additions of the Jewel, Butterfly Garden, and SQ’s lounge refurb, I felt the same. How is Changi constantly voted one of the best? But one thing I will say about Changi is that there is dedicated continuous improvement! They have never stopped improving it. Despite the layout, customs/arrivals nowadays are the smoothest you will ever get at a major international gateway!
The previous incarnation of the SQ lounges were a sorry...
Up until the recent additions of the Jewel, Butterfly Garden, and SQ’s lounge refurb, I felt the same. How is Changi constantly voted one of the best? But one thing I will say about Changi is that there is dedicated continuous improvement! They have never stopped improving it. Despite the layout, customs/arrivals nowadays are the smoothest you will ever get at a major international gateway!
The previous incarnation of the SQ lounges were a sorry excuse of lounges for such a decorated global airline. They are now vastly improved.
As for the brown carpets all around the terminals?…
I think it's not your position to judge whether it is a gimmick or not. It is culturally insensitive to even suggest it may be a gimmick. Koreans actually have a culture. To the extent Americans do, it's bible thumping gun clingers denying climate change and rolling back womens rights....
I think it's not your position to judge whether it is a gimmick or not. It is culturally insensitive to even suggest it may be a gimmick. Koreans actually have a culture. To the extent Americans do, it's bible thumping gun clingers denying climate change and rolling back womens rights. That's not a gimmick but will spell the end of American democracy if we are not careful.
Oh come of your high horse. Having a culture zone in an airport is a gimmick for people just connecting. You don’t have to be pompous and suggest this is the Koreans ancient sacred ground.
It can't be anyone's sacred ground. The airport was built on a landfill, previously part of the ocean.
If you read reeeeeeeally carefully, you'll see that Ben does NOT say that Korean culture is a gimmick, but an airport pop up stand promoting some of the more cliche cultural highlights might be. Besides, if you actually traveled a bit, then you would have noticed that culture is in the way things happen in everyday life, the way people treat each other, the values they have as a group and the way they spend...
If you read reeeeeeeally carefully, you'll see that Ben does NOT say that Korean culture is a gimmick, but an airport pop up stand promoting some of the more cliche cultural highlights might be. Besides, if you actually traveled a bit, then you would have noticed that culture is in the way things happen in everyday life, the way people treat each other, the values they have as a group and the way they spend their time. Some dance act is more or less (historically inspired) art and may or may not be of interest to any individual. It's nice to get around and see some of the roots of the current day culture for added perspective, but claiming that only that kind of outings are to be considered culture is a bit... narrow-minded.
Have a nice day and don't shoot me!
Immigration in the US without global entry is often in excess of an hour. I am not merely blustering. CBP publishes the data themselves on their Airport Wait Times website. Non-US citizens may even face waits of 2-3 hours or more. We are the richest country in the world and this is how we welcome our...
Immigration in the US without global entry is often in excess of an hour. I am not merely blustering. CBP publishes the data themselves on their Airport Wait Times website. Non-US citizens may even face waits of 2-3 hours or more. We are the richest country in the world and this is how we welcome our visitors. Shame on us.
Incheon might not be the world's most cutting edge airport but it is 1000% improper for any American to call any major Asian city airport overrated.
"We are the richest country in the world and this is how we welcome our visitors. Shame on us."
How American of you.
Take a piece about Korea and use it to talk about and condemn a country that isn't Korea.
Next, tell us how you feel about the Marrakesh airport, and do let us know whose airports Moroccans are allowed to criticize.
He's American, criticising his own country, and those criticisms are entirely valid.
Common TravelinPenis L.
Why would you hate facts?
TravelinWilly is right here. By Paul's standard, no one should ever criticize anyone else for anything. DL domestic first is mediocre? Well, at least it's better than having blocked seats on LH intra-Europe business. Everyone recognizes CBP needs to get better and Incheon can get better too. Two things can be true at once