Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport earns nomination for the 2025 USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Award recognizing the nation’s best small airports

Rochester, New York – The Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC) has once again found itself in the national spotlight. Monroe County Executive Adam Bello announced that the airport has been nominated for the 2025 USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Award for Best Small Airport.

Every year, a panel of experts narrows down a field of U.S. airports, naming only 20 contenders for the honor. ROC is no stranger to the recognition—having placed in the top 10 two years in a row—and now it has another chance to secure a leading position. Voting for this year’s competition officially opened September 8 and will run until October 6. Supporters are encouraged to cast one vote per day online until the polls close.

In his remarks, Bello praised the airport’s role as a vital link between Monroe County and the wider world. “Our hometown airport is again being honored in this national competition for its dedication to delivering the highest-quality passenger experience in the field,” said County Executive Bello. “Our continued investment in the Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport helps maintain its first-class status, serving as the gateway to the world for residents of Monroe County and the Finger Lakes Region. Recognition like this helps us get new airlines and destinations, so please vote daily and support our airport.”

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Small airports like ROC may serve fewer passengers than the country’s largest hubs, but the USA Today 10Best awards aim to highlight the conveniences that set them apart. Nominees are often recognized for their strong mix of flights, easier navigation, and more personal service. In last year’s voting, ROC finished in sixth place, a result that underscored its growing reputation among travelers. This year’s top ten winners will be unveiled on Wednesday, October 15, at noon EDT.

The nomination comes on the heels of a record-breaking year. In 2024, ROC served more than 2.6 million passengers, marking its busiest year in 15 years. That momentum has carried into 2025 with the addition of several new nonstop destinations, including Fort Myers, Raleigh-Durham, Charleston, Nashville, and Wilmington. These expanded routes have broadened travel options for both leisure and business flyers, making the airport an even more valuable asset to the region.

Passenger amenities have also become a major point of pride. Families traveling through the terminal can take advantage of a free video arcade and children’s play area developed in partnership with the Strong Museum of Play. High-speed Wi-Fi is provided at no cost thanks to Greenlight Networks, while updated lounge areas, charging stations throughout the concourses, and a variety of dining options offer added convenience. The mix of local favorites and national chains ensures travelers get a taste of Rochester while still having the reliability of familiar brands.

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Accessibility has been a major focus as well. ROC offers hearing loops to assist passengers with hearing aids, and the airport recently launched free access to the AIRA ASL app, providing live interpreter services for deaf or hard-of-hearing travelers. Blind and low-vision passengers also benefit from a free membership to the Aria Network, a step that has been applauded as forward-thinking and inclusive.

For Monroe County, the airport’s nomination is more than just a badge of honor—it is a reflection of ongoing efforts to invest in infrastructure, customer service, and community pride. With voting underway, supporters are being urged to log in daily to push ROC into the top ranks once again. Whether travelers pass through for work, family visits, or vacation getaways, the recognition positions the Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport as a small but mighty hub with a growing national reputation.