Queenstown International Airport (ZQN)

Common Complaints

• Long Security Wait Times: Numerous travelers report excessive and inefficient security screening queues, with some waiting over 1.5 hours, attributing this to understaffing and slow processing. This issue has been noted for both international and domestic departures.
• Poor Airside Facilities (International Departures): Critiques frequently mention very poor food and beverage options, insufficient seating, and a lack of charging ports in the international departures area, leading to overcrowding.
• Overcrowding and Insufficient Seating: The terminal, particularly landside, is often described as a "massive crush of people" with inadequate seating, forcing passengers to sit on the floor.
• Staff Customer Service Issues: Some reviews express strong dissatisfaction with the attitude and perceived incompetence of security staff, describing interactions as unhelpful and anxiety-inducing.
• Hot Departure Gates: Departure gates are noted for being uncomfortably hot, acting "like little greenhouses" due to sun exposure and a lack of air-conditioning or shades.
• Baggage Claim Delays: Older reviews indicate significant delays in baggage retrieval, with some waiting an hour or more.
• No Airbridges: The absence of airbridges means passengers often have to walk in the rain, which can be an inconvenience.

While Queenstown Airport has been recognized for its operational achievements and safety enhancements, travelers frequently experience challenges related to the terminal's capacity, staffing efficiency, and amenities, especially during peak times and in the international departures area. Visitors should prepare for potential delays at security and be aware of limited airside facilities.