Family holidays begin long before boarding the flight, and the airport experience can often set the tone for the entire journey. For parents travelling with young children, a well-designed airport with family-friendly amenities can make all the difference. From dedicated play zones and baby care facilities to sensory spaces and smooth security processes, modern airports are increasingly focusing on making travel less stressful for families. 

A recent global study by AttractionTickets.com evaluated 140 airports worldwide based on features that matter most to families. The findings placed two Indian airports, Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru and Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, among the world's top 10 family-friendly airports, highlighting India's growing commitment to creating a seamless travel experience for passengers of all ages. 

How the rankings were determined 

The study assessed airports using several family-focused criteria to identify the world's most convenient and welcoming travel hubs. Each airport received a score out of 20 based on factors including: 

•     Children's play areas 
•     Baby changing facilities 
•     Pram or stroller hire 
•     Family security lanes 
•     Rest and relaxation zones 
•     Free Wi-Fi suitable for streaming 
•     Airport size and accessibility 
•     Google review ratings 
•     Support for neurodivergent travellers 

These categories were chosen to reflect the real needs of families travelling with infants, toddlers, and young children, ensuring the rankings go beyond basic airport infrastructure. 

Bengaluru airport earns a spot among the world's best 

Scoring an impressive 18.6 out of 20, Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) secured a joint third place globally, making it one of the highest-ranked airports for family travel. 

One of its standout achievements is becoming India's first airport to introduce a dedicated sensory room for neurodivergent passengers. Designed to create a calm and comfortable environment, the sensory room helps travellers with autism, sensory sensitivities, and other special needs feel more relaxed before their journey. 

Beyond accessibility, Bengaluru Airport offers several attractions that make waiting for a flight enjoyable. Families can explore the airport's art installations and museum spaces, enjoy a meal at its famous dosa outlets, browse retail stores, or simply unwind in thoughtfully designed passenger areas. Combined with spacious terminals and efficient facilities, these features create an airport experience that feels welcoming rather than overwhelming. 

Hyderabad airport continues to impress families 

Just behind Bengaluru, Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD) ranked fourth worldwide with a score of 18.5 out of 20. 

The airport has built a reputation for its clean, spacious terminals, family-friendly amenities, and efficient passenger services. Parents travelling with children benefit from well-maintained baby care facilities, comfortable waiting areas, and smooth airport operations that help reduce travel-related stress. 

Its focus on passenger comfort, combined with modern infrastructure and consistently positive traveller feedback, has helped Hyderabad earn recognition alongside some of the world's most renowned international airports. 

The world's top family-friendly airports 

Leading the rankings is Helsinki-Vantaa Airport in Finland, which scored 19.4 out of 20. The airport impressed researchers with its dedicated family security lanes, nature-inspired children's play areas, and passenger-focused design that prioritises comfort for families. 

Singapore Changi Airport secured the second position, continuing its reputation as one of the world's best airports thanks to its extensive entertainment options, gardens, interactive attractions, and family-friendly facilities. 

Other airports featured in the global top 10 include Bahrain International, Tokyo Haneda, Zurich, Vienna International, Copenhagen, Seattle-Tacoma, Calgary International, Munich, Seoul Incheon, Muscat International, Hong Kong International, Barcelona El Prat, London Heathrow, and Dublin Airport. 

Why family-friendly airports matter more than ever 

Travelling with children presents unique challenges, especially during long journeys. Airports that provide dedicated family services can significantly improve the overall travel experience by reducing waiting-time stress, offering safe play areas for children, and providing comfortable spaces for parents to care for infants. 

Features such as sensory rooms also reflect a growing commitment to inclusive travel, ensuring that neurodivergent passengers and their families can navigate airports with greater confidence and comfort. 

As global travel continues to grow, airports that invest in accessibility, entertainment, and family-focused services are becoming preferred choices for travellers planning holidays with children. 

The inclusion of Kempegowda International Airport and Rajiv Gandhi International Airport among the world's best family-friendly airports is a significant achievement for Indian aviation. Their recognition demonstrates how thoughtful facilities, inclusive design, and passenger-centric services can transform the airport experience for families.