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Terminal 2 of Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi International Airport in India made the list by winning praises for its design, which reflects the identity of Northeast India.
Inspired by the bamboo orchid, a symbol of the region's rich biodiversity, the terminal combines contemporary architecture with elements of local culture, according to India's news site NDTV.
It also incorporates sustainable features designed to reduce its environmental impact while offering a modern travel experience.
As the largest airport in Northeast India, Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport serves as a key gateway linking the region with major cities across India and international destinations.
The world's most beautiful airports were selected for their architectural excellence, distinctive design features, panoramic surroundings and the integration of green, nature-inspired spaces that enhance the passenger experience.
Photo courtesy of Prix Versailles
Terminal 1 of Navi Mumbai International Airport in India was recognized for its striking lotus-inspired design, which combines futuristic architecture, public art, and practical functionality.
Its petal-shaped roof is designed not only as an architectural feature but also to maximize natural light and ventilation.
Built with a modular design, the terminal can be expanded in phases as passenger demand grows, reflecting the airport's role as one of India's most ambitious aviation projects.
Photo courtesy of Prix Versailles
Cambodia's Techo International Airport is the only Southeast Asian entry in this year's list.
Prix Versailles described the airport in the Kandal and Takeo provinces, 20 km south of Phnom Penh, as "a symbol of renewal that reflects permanence and stability."
Techo International Airport covers a total area of approximately 26 square kilometers, making it the third biggest airport in Southeast Asia.
It opened in 2025 as Cambodia aims to draw more international tourists and transform the country's regional tourism image.
Photo by Reuters
China's Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport earned a place on the list for its Terminal 3, which features a light-filled design with flowing, organic curves.
The terminal also incorporates a series of terraces, atriums, and landscaped gardens, creating relaxing spaces for passengers during layovers and transfers.
The design of the terminal pays tribute to the Lingnan cultural heritage in southern China.
Photo courtesy of Prix Versailles
Recognized as one of Europe's largest infrastructure projects, Frankfurt Airport's Terminal 3 was also on the list.
Built on a 1.3-square-kilometer site, roughly the size of Frankfurt's city center, the terminal significantly expands the airport's capacity while serving as a major new international gateway, British newspaper The Independent reported.
It is expected to handle a footfall of 19 million passengers annually.
Jérôme Gouadain, Secretary General of the Prix Versailles, described contemporary airports as "inescapable hallmarks", both of the region and era they sit in.
"They are innovative, because they resolve the apparent conflict between the increasing frequency of travel and the need for speed – both central to an airport's purpose – on the one hand and, on the other, the singularity of a form of tourism that aims to be accessible and that values people's time in places that, in this day and age, can no longer be described as mere 'transfer' spaces," he said as quoted by EuroNews.
Photo courtesy of Prix Versailles
Terminal 1 of San Diego International Airport in the U.S. also joined the list.
Designed by global architecture, design, and planning firm Gensler, Terminal 1 opened in September 2025, replacing the airport's original 1960s terminal.
Its design is inspired by San Diego's canyons, coastline, and open skies, reflected in art installations, sculpted ceilings, mosaic glass features, and an outdoor terrace with panoramic views of the city.
The terminal also showcases San Diego through locally inspired restaurants and retail outlets, creating a distinctive sense of place while enhancing the passenger experience, according to its website.
Photo courtesy of the airport
Pittsburgh International Airport in the U.S. was recognized for its sweeping, undulating roofline, inspired by the nearby Allegheny Mountains.
The design is supported by 38 tree-shaped steel columns that evoke the forests of western Pennsylvania, creating a strong connection to the region's natural landscape.
The landside terminal is distinguished by 38 tree-like steel columns, expansive glass walls, and a star-lit ceiling.
The $1.7-billion facility opened last November, replacing the airport's three-decade-old landside terminal.
Photo courtesy of Prix Versailles
