AirAdvisor’s Summer Connection Risk Index 2026 has identified four U.S. airports—Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Chicago O’Hare (ORD), New York JFK (JFK) and Miami International (MIA)—as the world’s most vulnerable points for missed connections. The ranking, released ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, warns travelers that delays, cancellations and sheer flight volume could jeopardise journeys to match venues.

DFW, ORD, JFK and MIA all labeled “High Risk” in the 2026 Index

According to the AirAdvisor report, each of the four U.S. hubs scored poorly across four metrics: frequency of delays, cancellation rates, average delay length and total flight movements. The combination of high traffic and chronic congestion pushed DFW, ORD, JFK and MIA into the top‑four worst‑performing airports worldwide for missed connections.

Methodology behind AirAdvisor’s Summer Connection Risk Index 2026

The index aggregates data from airline operating reports, airport traffic statistics and passenger‑experience surveys collected over the summer of 2025. As the source notes, the study weighted total flight volume most heavily, reflecting the sheer number of passengers who could be affected during the World Cup’s surge in demand.

EU261 compensation rights apply to US‑origin passengers

AirAdvisor points out that travelers passing through the flagged airports retain rights to compensation under EU261 (referred to as UK261 in the brief) if they miss connections due to airline‑controlled disruptions. Passengers are advised to keep boarding passes , receipts and to request meals or accommodation when delays exceed the airline’s minimum assistance threhold.

Who will adjust schedules for the 2026 World Cup?

The report does not indicate whether airlines plan to re‑schedule flights or add extra buffer times for the tournament.. as of now, the only guidance offered is for passengers to build personal buffers beyond the airline’s minimum connection time.

Open question: Will US regulators intervene before the tournament?

AirAdvisor’s brief leaves unanswered whether the Federal Aviation Administration or the Department of Transportation will issue special directives to mitigate the identified risks. No official comment from either agency was included in the source .