HSV is the only airport in Alabama to have secured a spot among the 15 airports selected from across the country by an editorial board for the contest.

“We are honored that voters named HSV the Best Small Airport in the U.S. in the Newsweek Reader’s Choice Awards,” said Joey Ceci, Chair of the Airport Board of Directors. “While Huntsville International Airport is celebrated for its convenience and scenic campus, it’s our outstanding team members who make the real difference.”

Airports are categorized by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as large, medium, or small hubs depending on the percentage of annual passenger boardings at an airport in relation to the overall number of boardings in the U.S. Huntsville International Airport recorded its largest number of passengers, more than 1.6 million, in 2024.

According to Newsweek.com, criteria by which the small hub airports were selected included ease with which travelers could navigate the airport, short lines, “shine in the service department and have modern, private airport vibes.”

“We take great pride in offering outstanding customer service and top-tier facilities to our community, and we’re sincerely grateful to our passengers for their continued support of Huntsville’s hometown airport,” said Butch Roberts, CEO of Huntsville International Airport.

“We’re also thankful for the vital role our airline partners play in HSV’s success, including the recent expansion of air service with more frequent flights and larger aircraft,” Roberts added. “Together, we’re proud to be the first choice for our valued travelers every single day.”