Athena K.
Yelp
okay, Miami International Airport, it's the chaotic, sweaty gateway to paradise. Let me start by saying that MIA and I have had a long, complicated relationship. After years of flying through this place, I can confidently say that it has its moments of greatness, but those are often overshadowed by a frustrating mess that leaves you questioning your life choices.
Let's start with the bad, because, let's be honest, there's plenty of it. Let me be clear: the gate agents? Absolute champs. They're hustling, keeping flights on track, and dealing with stressed-out travelers like pros. But the rest of the staff like the people that fix the train or run the checkpoints or clean or ferry around the disabled people in wheelchairs -- I understand what is up with them. "Miami chill"? Maybe that's what I'm seeing, and not in a good way. Whether it's the information desk attendants who treat you like you're interrupting their nap or the security staff who look like they'd rather be anywhere else, the vibe screams "bare minimum effort."
I swear, the train at MIA is broken more often than it's running. This is a HUGE problem because the airport is enormous. If your connecting flight is in another terminal, good luck! You'd better channel your inner marathon runner because the trek across terminals is so long and tedious that you might as well give up and book a new flight. I've missed more flights at this airport than I care to admit, and half the time, it's because the train was out of service. Walking 45 minutes between gates shouldn't be a requirement for travel, but here we are. Why can't they just fix the train and keep it running? It's not like they don't have mechanics there, sitting around at the stations, being useless. Last time they were all standing around while one guy was taping signs on the escalators to say the train was down.
Related to the ineffectual staff is the cleanliness, or I guess, the lack of cleanliness? I don't know what's going on with the custodial staff here, but it's like they collectively decided that cleaning is optional. The restrooms? Yikes. On my last visit, the floors were sticky (from what, I don't want to know), the sinks were all dripping water, and the trash cans were overflowing. Dirty diapers and sanitary napkins (used) were stacked up next to the full trashcans. It was just gross. The airport floors aren't much better. Every step feels like you're dodging smashed food crumbs, spilled coffee, or something worse. My shoes made that sound that means the soles are sticking to the tile floor.
Let's shift gears and talk about the positives; because MIA does get some things right. For one, they've finally joined the modern age with plenty of outlets near the gates. This is not FLL. You can charge your phone or laptop without having to elbow someone out of the way. Bravo, MIA, this is literally one of the reasons I choose you over Ft. Lauderdale.
The seating situation has also improved. There are usually enough chairs near each gate, so you don't have to sit on the floor. It's a small thing, but it makes a big difference when your flight is delayed (which it probably will be, because this is MIA).
Finally, let's give a round of applause to the baggage staff. They are the unsung heroes of this airport. Not only are they quick and efficient, but they also seem to have mastered the art of not losing people's luggage--a rare skill these days. I've never had anything stolen from a bag through here and I've flown through here maybe a few hundred times times, and my bags have always made it to my destination, which is more than I can say for other major airports. They've even handled bags that were damaged before they arrived at Miami and were missing a tag or without a wheel. All three times they have delivered the bag to me or the baggage claim office by hand at the baggage claim before customs to assure that I got it and could continue on my trip.
So, there you have it: Miami International Airport in all its messy, lovable glory. Sure, it's far from perfect, but it's also not the worst place to get stranded (as long as you don't have to walk two miles to your gate). Three stars because it's functional, but let's not pretend it's a pleasant experience. Wear comfortable shoes, pack some patience, and maybe bring a mop for the restrooms. You'll thank me later.