London Heathrow Airport has been named the third most Instagrammable airport in the world, according to a new study.
The popular London hub amassed over 762,000 Instagram posts, making it a social media favourite for travellers keen to capture memorable moments at one of the busiest airports on the planet.
This latest ranking, revealed by the travel site Miss Tourist, identified Heathrow Airport as a top contender among global travel hubs, with only Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO) surpassing it in Instagram popularity.
The study highlights the growing influence of social media on how travellers interact with airports, where visual appeal plays a significant role in their overall experience.
Global Airports’ Instagram Popularity: LAX Takes the Crown
According to Miss Tourist’s research, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) takes the top spot as the most Instagrammable airport in the world, boasting a staggering 3.39 million hashtags on Instagram. Famous for its striking Theme Building, proximity to Hollywood, and breathtaking Pacific Ocean views, LAX has become the ultimate airport backdrop for Instagrammers.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) comes in second place with over 1 million Instagram posts, thanks to its sleek, modern architecture, art installations, and panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay Area.
While Heathrow Airport ranks third with 762,904 posts, it remains a social media hotspot for travellers passing through Europe. With an impressive 79 million passengers in 2023 alone, Heathrow serves as a key gateway for international flights, offering a range of visually appealing features, including luxury shopping outlets, vibrant art installations, and modern design that make it ideal for Instagram snaps.
Top Ten Most Instagrammable Airports
The study from Miss Tourist was based on hashtag data collected from Instagram. Starting with a list of the top fifty busiest airports in the world, researchers identified the most frequently used hashtags for each airport to determine which airports were most popular on the social media platform. Below are the top ten airports ranked by their Instagram hashtag count:
| Rank | Airport | Instagram Hashtags |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Los Angeles International (LAX) | 3,393,690 |
| 2 | San Francisco International (SFO) | 1,047,624 |
| 3 | London Heathrow (LHR) | 762,904 |
| 4 | Kuala Lumpur International (KUL) | 600,336 |
| 5 | Singapore Changi (SIN) | 581,993 |
| 6 | Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) | 478,744 |
| 7 | Dubai International (DXB) | 451,229 |
| 8 | Tokyo Haneda (HND) | 448,039 |
| 9 | Frankfurt International (FRA) | 326,069 |
| 10 | London Gatwick (LGW) | 257,330 |
As one of the busiest airports in the world, Heathrow serves millions of passengers each year, connecting them to over 80 countries across the globe. It’s no surprise that it’s become a social media magnet.
The airport’s mix of high-end luxury shopping, modern architecture, and impressive public art installations have made it a popular location for Instagrammers looking to document their travels. From stylish terminals to iconic views of aircraft soaring overhead, travellers at Heathrow have no shortage of Instagram-worthy moments.
Yulia Saf, Founder of Miss Tourist, commented on the findings, saying: “Airports are no longer just transit points; they’ve evolved into destinations in their own right, full of unique experiences and local culture. The fact that so many travellers share their airport experiences on social media shows just how important these places have become in marking the start or end of an adventure.”
Kuala Lumpur and Singapore Changi: Asia’s Instagram Gems
In fourth place is Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), which racked up over 600,000 Instagram posts. Known for its stunning blend of modern design and traditional Malay elements, KUL offers a unique experience for travellers with its lush indoor greenery and famous Jungle Boardwalk, a forest-like setting inside the terminal. This striking feature alone has made it a favourite for Instagram users looking to capture a piece of Malaysia’s natural beauty before they even leave the airport.
Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) takes fifth place with 581,993 posts. Renowned for being one of the most beautiful airports in the world, Changi is home to extraordinary attractions such as the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, a butterfly garden, and mesmerising art installations. These impressive amenities provide plenty of opportunities for Instagrammers to capture unique moments during their travels.
Amsterdam, Dubai, and Tokyo Haneda Among Top Instagram Favourites
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) ranks sixth with nearly 479,000 Instagram hashtags. Its reputation for efficiency, modern design, and cultural exhibits make it a favourite for those flying through Europe. Travellers at Schiphol can explore art exhibits, visit its on-site library, and capture iconic scenes from this renowned Dutch hub.
Dubai International Airport (DXB), with 451,229 Instagram posts, takes seventh place. Famous for its ultra-luxurious lounges, cutting-edge architecture, and high-end shopping experiences, DXB continues to draw attention from Instagram users eager to share their experiences at one of the world’s most opulent airports.
Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) follows closely in eighth place with 448,039 Instagram hashtags. Celebrated for its immaculate cleanliness, efficient design, and traditional Japanese cultural experiences, Haneda offers travellers a serene backdrop for their social media posts. Its tranquil Japanese gardens and authentic dining experiences make it a hit with Instagram enthusiasts.
European Icons Frankfurt and Gatwick Make the Top 10
Frankfurt International Airport (FRA), one of Europe’s busiest hubs, ranks ninth with 326,069 Instagram posts. Known for its central location in Europe and wide range of amenities, including art exhibitions and top-tier shopping, Frankfurt is a popular location for travellers looking to document their journey across the continent.
Rounding off the top ten is London Gatwick Airport (LGW) with 257,330 hashtags. Gatwick’s close proximity to London and its modern, traveller-friendly facilities make it a favourite for those travelling in and out of the UK, ensuring it remains an Instagrammable stop for many.
The Rise of Instagrammable Airports
The surge in airports’ Instagram popularity reflects a wider trend where social media has become an integral part of the travel experience. Travellers are no longer simply passing through airports but are capturing their surroundings and sharing them with a global audience. Whether it’s an iconic landmark, a stunning view, or a unique airport feature, passengers are eager to document every moment of their journey. Heathrow Airport, with its impressive social media presence, stands at the forefront of this travel trend, offering a wealth of Instagram-worthy experiences that keep it firmly on the global stage.
