NEW HAVEN, Conn. — Tweed New Haven Airport has earned national recognition, nominated in Newsweek’s 2025 Readers Choice Awards as one of the best small airports in the United States. It is the only nominee from the busy tri-state area.
“We’re just so incredibly proud of this recognition for the quality of service and convenience that we provide to our passengers,” said Thomas Cavaliere, director of community engagement at Tweed New Haven.
The airport is one of 15 small U.S. airports included in the running. The nomination comes amid ongoing discussion about the airport’s future expansion and new terminal construction.
Cavaliere emphasized that growth won’t compromise Tweed’s signature charm. “Even with the expansion and as we look towards a new terminal, we will still be a small airport,” he said.
For many travelers, that small-scale experience is exactly why Tweed stands out.
“It’s quick, the people are very nice, I had a great conversation with the TSA lady downstairs, she was lovely, it’s always just really convenient,” said Emma Foyle, a North Carolina-bound passenger. “My parents just pick me up and I’ve never really had any real issues with it compared to some of the bigger airports.”
First-time flyers Sara Palmer and Jennifer DeMartino echoed the sentiment.
“Super easy to get to, no traffic, we walked right in, no lines, I prefer a small airport over a JFK or LaGuardia, so I will definitely be using this again,” DeMartino said.
Palmer added, “The price for the ticket, they might add on like check-in bag, or seat but still it was way cheaper than flying out of a JetBlue or United.”
The cost-effectiveness, limited wait times, and easy access continue to appeal to both first-time and returning travelers.
However, the airport’s growth has stirred opposition from some local residents. Petrina Yoxall, who lives next to Tweed, offered a different perspective.
“Perhaps as a traveling experience it may be, because it’s an awful lot of convenience for people in the area but as far as the neighborhood and environment are concerned, it’s catastrophic,” Yoxall said.
The Newsweek nomination arrives as public debate around airport development continues, with Tweed balancing between expanding its capacity and maintaining its identity as a small, accessible alternative to larger airports in the region.
Voting for the Readers Choice Awards is expected to run through the coming weeks on Newsweek’s website, where travelers can help decide which small airport will take the top spot.
