Airports aren’t just stopovers—they’re the arteries of global travel. Every year, billions of passengers stream through the world’s busiest airports.
Curious about which airports move the most people? We turned to Airports Council International’s (ACI) 2025 World Airport Traffic Report.
When you look at the complete picture—both domestic and international travelers—one airport flies above all: Atlanta’s Hartsfield–Jackson (ATL). With an astonishing 108 million passengers in 2024, it remains the busiest airport on earth.
But when it comes to international traffic alone, no one has outshined Dubai International (DXB), the true crossroads of continents. For more than a decade, DXB has held the crown as the world’s busiest international airport, welcoming 92.3 million travelers through its gleaming terminals in 2024.
With massive expansion projects on the horizon though, more airports are poised to join the ultra-exclusive 100 Million Passengers Club, redefining the future flight path of global aviation.
| # | Airport | Annual Passengers |
| 1. | Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International (ATL), USA | 108.1 million |
| 2. | Dubai International (DXB), UAE | 92.3 million |
| 3. | Dallas Fort Worth International (DFW), USA | 87.8 million |
| 4. | Tokyo Haneda (HND), Japan | 85.9 million |
| 5. | London Heathrow (LHR), UK | 83.9 million |
| 6. | Denver International (DEN), USA | 82.4 million |
| 7. | Istanbul (IST), Turkey | 80.1 million |
| 8. | Chicago O’Hare International (ORD), USA | 80 million |
| 9. | Indira Gandhi International (DEL), India | 77.8 million |
| 10. | Shanghai Pudong International (PVG), China | 76.8 million |
| 11. | Los Angeles International (LAX), USA | 76.6 million |
1. Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International, Georgia, USA—108.1 million passengers
Lit up at night, the red and purple spectacle is impossible to miss from the sky. And even if you’re tired from traveling, the bright LEDs evoke a new sense of excitement.
As the busiest airport in the world for most of the past two decades, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport saw over 108 million passengers pass through its gates in 2024. But don’t let that put you off. With modern technologies and efficient systems, the international airport is designed to accommodate a constant flow of international passengers. Over 50 lounges offer complimentary food and drinks. Hundreds of duty-free shops provide the perfect excuse to pack a new wardrobe. And self-driving robot pads make it easier for passengers with limited mobility to navigate the modern facilities.
Its central U.S. location and role as Delta Air Lines’ primary hub make it a top connecting global airport. ATL offers direct flights to over 200 destinations across six continents.
| Annual passengers: | 108.1 million |
| Location: | Atlanta, Georgia, United States |
| IATA airport code: | ATL |
| Runways: | 5 |
| Longest runway: | 12,390 ft (3776m) |
| Airlines: | 20 |
| Destinations: | 220 |
| Opened in: | 1926 |
2. Dubai International Airport (DXB), UAE — 92.3 million
What would any list of superlatives be without Dubai!
Dubai International Airport (DXB) dazzles as the world’s second-busiest airport, welcoming 92.3 million passengers in 2024—its highest traffic ever, and more than the entire population of Germany!
For over a decade, DXB has held the crown as the world’s busiest international airport, outpacing fierce rivals like London Heathrow, Paris Charles de Gaulle, Istanbul, and Doha.
It’s also among the most connected airports on the planet, linking travelers to 272 destinations in 107 countries, served by 106 airlines, with Emirates and flydubai calling it home.
The airport’s story is as remarkable as its scale. From humble beginnings in 1960, with a single 1,800-meter sand runway, DXB has grown into a marvel of modern aviation, now boasting the capacity to handle 115 million passengers annually—a number it seems destined to reach sooner than later.
| Annual passengers: | 92.3 million |
| Location: | Dubai, United Arab Emirates |
| IATA airport code: | DXB |
| Runways: | 2 |
| Longest runway: | 14,600 ft (4,450 m) |
| Airlines: | 100+ |
| Destinations: | 270+ |
| Opened in: | 1960 |
3. Fort Worth International, Dallas, USA—87.8 million passengers
Whether you’ve come to see the Dallas Cowboys or are just passing through, Fort Worth International is one of the busiest airports in the world for good reason. Built in 1973, the iconic airport features five terminals including a luxury terminal with private suites and complimentary gourmet meals prepared by local chefs.
Naturally, if you only have a couple of hours in Texas, you’ll want to make the most of Southern homestyle cooking. Fort Worth International has plenty of eateries that serve up Dallas’ signature barbeque chicken, sandwiches, and frozen yogurt. Eaten yourself into a coma? It’s time to unwind at one of the airport’s many spas.
DFW welcomed 87.8 million passengers in 2024. It also boasts its own post office ZIP Code, 75261, and is nearly the size of Manhattan, making it one of the world’s biggest airports by space as well.
| Annual passengers: | 87.8 million |
| Location: | Dallas – Fort Worth, Texas, United States |
| IATA airport code: | DFW |
| Runways: | 7 |
| Longest runway: | 13,401 ft (4,085 m) |
| Airlines: | 28 |
| Destinations: | 260 |
| Opened in: | 1973 |
4. Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND), Japan — 85.9 million
Tokyo is a beating heart of ultramodernity, stitched on a canvas of deep-rooted tradition—and Haneda Airport (HND) embodies that same duality.
Here, travel is as much about the experience as the destination. At Haneda, you can slip into an onsen bath (hot springs) while watching planes take off with Mt. Fuji in the distance, or stroll through Terminal 3’s Edo Ko-ji, a re-creation of a traditional Edo-period street. Prefer pop culture? Head to Tokyo Pop Town in Terminal 2, where you’ll find everything from kawaii souvenirs to matcha cafés.
In 2024, Haneda welcomed 85 million passengers, brushing up against its infrastructure capacity of 90 million and securing its place as Asia’s busiest airport. Located just south of central Tokyo, Haneda serves as Japan’s premier domestic hub while linking to major international cities. Its proximity to the city center, modern facilities, and efficient services consistently earn it a spot among the best airports in the world.
| Annual passengers: | 85.9 million |
| Location: | Tokyo, Japan |
| IATA airport code: | HND |
| Runways: | 4 |
| Longest runway: | 11,024 ft (3,360 m) |
| Airlines: | 40+ |
| Destinations: | 100+ |
| Opened in: | 1931 |
5. Heathrow Airport (LHR), United Kingdom — 83.9 million
London Heathrow retained its place as Europe’s busiest airport in 2024 with nearly 84 million passengers. A critical transatlantic hub, Heathrow connects the UK to over 200 destinations and serves as British Airways’ home base.
Despite having only two runways, LHR manages immense traffic volumes. Its four passenger terminals feature world-class shopping and lounges. Plans for future runway expansion reflect Heathrow’s importance in global aviation and its role as the gateway to Europe.
| Annual passengers: | 83.9 million |
| Location: | London, United Kingdom |
| IATA airport code: | LHR |
| Runways: | 2 |
| Longest runway: | 12,799 ft (3,901 m) |
| Airlines: | 80+ |
| Destinations: | 200+ |
| Opened in: | 1946 |
6. Denver International Airport (DEN), Colorado, USA — 82.4 million
The second biggest airport in the world, Denver International sprawls over 135km2 and sees over 82 million passengers pass through its gates annually.
Known for its vast land area and iconic tent-like terminal roof, the mecca for travel is located in the Rocky Mountain Region. And despite the colossal size and constant hum of people, it’s actually a pleasant airport to spend a layover.Â
State-of-the-art security systems have been implemented to eliminate long queues. Automated bag check-ins are hassle-free. And modernized terminals are clean and streamlined for efficiency and entertainment. We particularly recommend popping into Root Down—the first local restaurant to expand to the airport. Denver also boasts one of the world’s longest runways, accommodating large aircraft for long-haul international flights.
| Annual passengers: | 82.4 million |
| Location: | Denver, Colorado, United States |
| IATA airport code: | DEN |
| Runways: | 6 |
| Longest runway: | 16,000 ft (4,800m) |
| Airlines: | 25 |
| Destinations: | 215 |
| Opened in: | 1995 |
7. Istanbul Airport (IST), Turkey — 80.1 million
Istanbul Airport ( also known as iGA – Istanbul Grand airport) has quickly risen as one of the busiest airports in the world with 80.7 million passengers in 2024. Opened in 2018, it is one of the world’s newest mega-hubs—and one of the most ambitious. With plans to eventually accommodate up to 200 million travelers annually by 2028, it’s poised to become the largest airport on earth.
Anchored by Turkish Airlines’ global hub, Istanbul connects passengers to more than 300 destinations spanning Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Its design embraces an “under one roof” philosophy, with a single 1.4 million-square-meter terminal—among the world’s largest—serving both domestic and international flights. Architectural cues nod to the city’s Ottoman heritage, blending tradition with modern efficiency.
| Annual passengers: | 80.1 million |
| Location: | Istanbul, Turkey |
| IATA airport code: | IST |
| Runways: | 5 |
| Longest runway: | 14,764 ft (4,500 m) |
| Airlines: | 99 |
| Destinations: | 321 |
| Opened in: | 2018 |
8. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), USA — 80 million
Reflecting a city shaped by lines and movement, Chicago O’Hare International’s tripartite design merges into a single building. Whilst the pronged-shaped architecture references the American city’s unique position along Lake Michigan and the Chicago River.
The Chicago seal also played its part as a muse for the airport design. And “The City in a Garden” is beautifully encapsulated by resplendent florals positioned between clean white infrastructure. The modern facility flaunts four terminals with luxurious amenities such as fine dining restaurants, lounges, spas, shopping centers, and entertainment areas. And with direct flights to over 250 destinations, it’s become the meeting point for 80 million passengers in 2024. With eight runways—the most of any major international airport—ORD is a key hub for both United Airlines and American Airlines, offering hundreds of domestic and international connections.
| Annual passengers: | 80 million |
| Location: | Chicago, Illinois, United States |
| IATA airport code: | ORD |
| Runways: | 8 |
| Longest runway: | 13,000 ft (3,962m) |
| Airlines: | 45 |
| Destinations: | 258 |
| Opened in: | 1944 |
9. Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), India — 77.8 million
Delhi’s Indira Gandhi Airport welcomed 77.8 million passengers in 2024, becoming South Asia’s busiest airport.
Serving as a hub for Air India and IndiGo, DEL connects India to destinations worldwide. Its modern Terminal 3 and ongoing expansions showcase the country’s booming aviation industry.
Delhi’s location as the capital city enhances its importance as both a domestic and international hub, reflecting India’s rapid rise in global air travel rankings.
| Annual passengers: | 77.8 million |
| Location: | Delhi, India |
| IATA airport code: | DEL |
| Runways: | 4 |
| Longest runway: | 14,534 ft (4,430 m) |
| Airlines: | 60+ |
| Destinations: | 160+ |
| Opened in: | 1962 |
10. Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), China — 76.8 million
Shanghai Pudong handled 76.8 million passengers in 2024, ranking tenth worldwide.
Opened in 1999, PVG serves as the primary international hub for Shanghai, while Hongqiao Airport handles most domestic flights.
Pudong is a major base for China Eastern Airlines and plays a vital role in China’s economic and tourism growth.
| Annual passengers: | 76.8 million |
| Location: | Shanghai, China |
| IATA airport code: | PVG |
| Runways: | 5 |
| Longest runway: | 13,123 ft (4,000 m) |
| Airlines: | 80+ |
| Destinations: | 210+ |
| Opened in: | 1999 |
11. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), USA — 76.6 million
The city of angels and the airport of dreams. Los Angeles International Airport connects travelers to 187 international destinations, making it a hotspot for stopovers.
LAX saw 76.6million passengers in 2024, securing its position as the U.S. West Coast’s busiest gateway.Â
It’s difficult to just pass through LA without checking out Hollywood and Beverly Hills’ biggest houses in the world and most expensive homes. Fortunately, the airport is relatively close to the city and public buses make it easy to access all the main attractions. If you’re short on time but still itching for fresh air, Manhattan Beach is around the corner. And if you just want to rest with minimal effort, you can’t go wrong with a deep tissue massage at one of the airport spas—you’ve earned it after all those hours on board.
| Annual passengers: | 76.6 million |
| Location: | Los Angeles, California, United States |
| IATA airport code: | LAX |
| Runways: | 4 |
| Longest runway: | 12,091 ft (3,685m) |
| Airlines: | 66 |
| Destinations: | 187 |
| Opened in: | 1928 |
The busiest airports in the world: Conclusion
Ok, so you can’t hop onto one of the most expensive private jets or charter the world’s largest yachts, but you can determine how and where you spend an unavoidable layover. And whilst the busiest airports may not necessarily scream luxury, there are actually a few advantages of checking into these action-packed hubs.
International airports that are constantly bustling with passengers are likely to have better facilities and plenty to do. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International—the busiest airport in the world—features over 50 luxury lounges, hundreds of high-fashion boutiques and self-driving robot pads. Dallas Fort Worth International includes a luxury terminal complete with private suites and complimentary gourmet meals. And Chicago O’Hare International is inspired by “A City in the Garden”, ornamented with resplendent florals and featuring some of the most serene spa treatments.
All of the world’s busiest airports are designed for hyper-efficiency with cutting-edge technologies. Think: robot assistants, automated check-ins and streamlined security systems. Plus, we think it’s fun to embrace the excited energy of thousands of people from around the world awaiting their next trip.
On board yet?
The top 20 busiest airports of 2024 in annual total passengers:
- Atlanta, USA (ATL) – 108,067,766 passengers
- Dubai, UAE (DXB) – 92,331,506 passengers
- Dallas/Fort Worth, USA (DFW) – 87,817,864 passengers
- Tokyo, Japan (HND) – 85,900,617 passengers
- London, UK (LHR) – 83,884,572 passengers
- Denver, UA (DEN) – 82,358,744 passengers
- Istanbul, Turkey (IST) – 80,073,252 passengers
- Chicago, USA (ORD) – 80,043,050 passengers
- New Delhi, India (DEL) – 77,820,834 passengers
- Shanghai, China (PVG) – 76,787,039 passengers
- Los Angeles, USA (LAX) – 76,588,028 passengers
- Guangzhou, China (CAN) – 76,365,092 passengersÂ
- Incheon, Korea (ICN) – 71,212,515 passengers
- Paris, France (CDG) – 70,290,260
- Singapore, Singapore (SIN) – 67,650,000
- Beijing, China (PEK) – 67,367,428
- Amsterdam, Netherlands (AMS) – 66,828,759
- Madrid, Spain (MAD) – 66,148,340
- New York, USA (JFK) – 63,265,984
- Bangkok, Thailand (BKK) – 62,234,693
