Top 10 Busiest Airports in the World

Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson tops the list of the world's busiest airports, while Indira Gandhi International Airport ranks last.

Curious about which airports top the charts globally? Explore the busiest airports in the world as we delve into the mega terminals and bustling runways that keep global travel in motion. From sprawling facilities to record-breaking traffic, find out how these airports handle millions of passengers. Join us as we uncover the giants of global travel and what makes them truly exceptional in the aviation world.

Overview

In 2023, global airports buzzed with 8.7 billion passengers, driven by a surge in international flights. The Airport Council International (ACI) surveyed over 2,700 airports to identify the top 10 busiest airports in the world.

Let's explore how these major hubs manage the massive passenger traffic with impressive efficiency.

List Of the Top 10 Busiest Airports in the World

1. Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) - US

Winning the race as the world's busiest airport, Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) led the charts with around 104 million passengers in 2023. Since its opening in 1926 on a former racetrack, ATL has grown to feature North America's tallest air traffic control tower.

Its prime location connects 80% of the U.S. population within two hours, reinforcing its status as a global hub. Despite pandemic setbacks, ATL rebounded impressively in 2021, consistently exceeding 100 million passengers and maintaining its top spot.

2. Dubai International Airport (DXB) - UEA

Soaring to second place globally, Dubai International Airport (DXB) stands as the busiest Asian airport and a central global hub. Since its public debut in 1960, DXB has become renowned for its colossal baggage handling system. In 2023, the airport handled 86.99 million passengers, making it a key connector between Asia-Pacific, Europe, and North America.

Regardless of a 79% traffic drop during the pandemic, DXB rebounded with a 31.7% increase in 2022-2023. Even though it didn't surpass its 2018 peak of 89.1 million, it remains a vital player in global travel.

Fond Tip: For smoother travel, check if your airport offers mobile apps for real-time updates on flight status and gate changes.

3. Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) - US

Standing strong among the world's busiest airports, Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) continues to make its mark. In 2023, it achieved 81.76 million passengers, slightly moving from second to third place. Recognized as North America's first carbon-neutral airport, DFW is famous for its extensive nonstop flights and connectivity.

Despite a significant traffic drop during the pandemic, DFW swiftly recovered by offering a vast network of connections across the Americas. Its resilience and broad reach keep it a key hub in global travel.

4. London Heathrow Airport (LHR) - U.K.

Securing a top spot among global airports, London Heathrow Airport (LHR) holds a prominent position. In 2023, LHR handled 79.15 million passengers, landing in sixth place globally. Established in 1946, Heathrow is set to surpass 81 million passengers in 2024.

Although it competes with five other airports in London, Heathrow excels with the highest number of international connections worldwide in 2023. Even with pandemic-induced declines, LHR has bounced back strongly and reclaimed its status as one of the busiest airports in Europe.

5. Tokyo Haneda International Airport (HND) - Japan

Ranking fifth in the 10 busiest airports in the world, Tokyo Haneda International Airport (HND) has made a remarkable leap in passenger traffic. In 2023, HND welcomed an additional 28 million passengers, bringing its total to 78.72 million, a 55% increase from the previous year.

Operating since 1931, Tokyo Haneda has experienced significant growth, climbing from sixteenth to fifth place in just one year. While it hasn't yet matched its pre-pandemic peak of over 87 million passengers, Haneda continues to be a major global travel hub.

6. Denver International Airport (DEN) - United States

Making its mark among the busiest airports in the USA, Denver International Airport (DEN) has quickly risen to prominence since opening in 1995. Spanning twice the size of Manhattan, it is the largest airport in North America. In 2023, DEN handled 77.84 million passengers.

Despite its relatively recent debut, DEN has consistently ranked among the top 20 busiest airports globally since the early 2000s. The airport managed a notable recovery from the pandemic, surpassing its 2019 traffic and maintaining a strong presence in the top 10 with impressive passenger numbers.

7. iGA Istanbul Airport (IST), Turkey

Making waves among the busiest airports in the world, iGA Istanbul Airport (IST) is a standout performer. Since opening in 2018, it has quickly become a major player, handling 76.24 million passengers in 2023. This impressive traffic is partly due to the transfer of flights from the now-closed Atatürk Airport.

Despite a significant drop in traffic during the pandemic, iGA Istanbul Airport has rebounded strongly. Its strategic location, connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa, boosts Turkey's appeal as a tourist and transit hub.

8. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) - United States

Known globally as LAX, Los Angeles International Airport holds a celebrated spot on the list of 10 busiest airports in the world. Despite not reaching its pre-pandemic traffic levels, LAX remains a major hub with 75.05 million passengers in 2023, reflecting a strong recovery from the previous year.

Opened in 1928, LAX is one of the oldest airports on the list. Its original hangar, restored in 1990, is still in use today. With a $15 billion upgrade underway, LAX might climb even higher in the rankings in the future.

9. Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) - United States

Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) may not hold the same dominance it once had, but it still ranks among the world's busiest airports. Once the busiest airport globally from 1963 to 1998, ORD has seen a shift in recent years, dropping slightly within the top ten.

Although its passenger numbers remain 13% lower than its pre-pandemic figures, the airport saw an 8% rise in traffic between 2022 and 2023. While no longer the dominant force it once was, O'Hare continues to play a key role in the U.S. aviation landscape.

Fond Tip: Planning a trip through one of these major airports? Let FondTravels help you find the best flights at +1 (571) 389 6426.

10. Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) - India

Last but certainly not least, Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) proudly stands as the busiest airport in India. Established in 1930, DEL has long served as a major hub for Indian airlines and the bustling capital city of New Delhi.

While it dropped one spot globally, the airport saw an increase in traffic in 2023, surpassing its pre-pandemic levels by 5%. As India's aviation market booms, DEL is nearing capacity, leading the government to build Noida International Airport for future growth.

Final Thoughts

As we wrap up our exploration of the busiest airports in the world, it's clear that many are still recovering from pre-pandemic traffic levels. Despite this, the heavyweights of global travel continue to remain prominent. North America continues to lead with five major hubs, while Asia's growing influence is evident with a strong presence in the top ten. For more insights into travel and aviation, reach out to FondTravels at +1 (571) 389 6426.

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