Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) has achieved a major milestone, securing the fourth spot in a global ranking of the world’s most Instagrammable airports, surpassing Singapore’s renowned Changi Airport.
The ranking, conducted by the aviation website Simple Flying, analyzed Instagram hashtags associated with the world’s 50 busiest airports.
KLIA emerged in fourth place with over 600,000 hashtags, while Changi Airport, often regarded as one of the best airports in the world, came in fifth.
KLIA’s unique features drive popularity
According to the study, KLIA’s distinctive mix of modern design and natural elements has made it a favorite among travelers and Instagram users alike.
Its lush indoor greenery, notably the Jungle Boardwalk, offers a unique visual experience that sets it apart from other airports.
“KLIA boasts a stunning blend of contemporary architecture and nature, with its Jungle Boardwalk being a highlight for many visitors,” the study noted.
“With 600,336 Instagram posts and 47 million passengers in 2023, KLIA is Malaysia’s biggest and busiest airport, located 45 kilometers south of Kuala Lumpur.”
KLIA has also undergone significant development in recent years, including the opening of Terminal 2 in 2014 and the current expansion of a new satellite terminal, which will boost the airport’s capacity to 97.5 million passengers annually.
The airport, managed by Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad, serves as a hub for airlines such as Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia.
KLIA’s strong performance in the rankings underscores Malaysia’s rising profile as a travel destination and the growing appeal of its main airport as a visual attraction for social media users.
Global Instagrammable Airport Rankings
Leading the list of the most Instagrammable airports is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), followed by San Francisco International Airport in second place, and London’s Heathrow Airport in third.
Other airports making the top 10 include Schiphol Airport in the Netherlands, Dubai International Airport in the UAE, Tokyo Haneda Airport in Japan, Frankfurt Airport in Germany, and Gatwick Airport in the U.K.
