Ever wondered which airports are the world’s busiest, and what makes them so jam-packed?

Let’s explore the busiest airports in the world and break down the numbers.

Here’s the list:

1. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (KATL) ??
2. Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (KDFW) ??
3. Denver International Airport (KDEN) ??
4. O’Hare International Airport (KORD) ??
5. Dubai International Airport (OMDB) ??
6. Los Angeles International Airport (KLAX) ??
7. Istanbul Airport (LTFM) ??
8. Heathrow Airport (EGLL) ??
9. Indira Gandhi International Airport (VIDP) ??
10. Charles de Gaulle Airport (LFPG) ??

The Airports Council International’s world traffic report, released in 2023, serves as the source for our numbers.

What is “Busiest?”

In the airport world, “busiest” is usually measured in passenger traffic.

It’s all about the number of passengers coming and going.

Think of it as the headcount of every person getting on or off an airplane at a particular airport. Some airports might have massive cargo movements or many flights, but we’re ranking them based on the number of people passing through an airport in one year.

1. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (KATL)

Atlanta, Georgia

93,699,630 Passengers

The busiest airport in the world is Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, often called “Atlanta Airport” or “Hartsfield-Jackson.”

Nestled in the heart of the American South, this mega-hub isn’t just a gateway to the U.S., but to the entire world.

Why so busy?

Atlanta’s location makes it a prime connecting point for flights crisscrossing North America, and its status is boosted as a home base for Delta Air Lines, one of the world’s largest carriers.

The airport boasts an impressive track record among the top on-time airport departures and arrivals. So, while it’s bustling with activity, there’s a good chance your flight from ATL will be right on schedule!

2. Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (KDFW)

Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas

73,362,946 Passengers

Next, we land in Texas at the sprawling Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, often shortened to “DFW.”

Everything’s bigger in Texas, and DFW sure lives up to that reputation. It’s vast, covering more land than Manhattan!

DFW isn’t just big in size; it’s a heavyweight in passenger numbers, too. Situated between the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, this hub serves as a central U.S. gateway and a major connecting point for international flights, especially to Latin America.

American Airlines, one of the giants in the aviation world, calls DFW home, making it its largest hub.

And while you’re there, don’t be surprised if that famous Southern hospitality shines through, even amidst the hustle and bustle.

3. Denver International Airport (KDEN)

Denver, Colorado

69,286,461 Passengers

Next stop: The Mile-High City! Denver International Airport, lovingly dubbed “DIA” or simply “Denver Airport,” stands tall and proud against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.

And no, it’s not just the altitude that makes it special.

Recognizable by its iconic peaked roof (inspired by the snow-capped Rockies), DIA covers a vast expanse of land, making it the second-largest airport in the world by total area.

But size isn’t its only claim to fame.

Strategically positioned, Denver serves as a major hub for flights spanning coast to coast, connecting the Midwest to the West Coast and international destinations. United Airlines and Southwest Airlines, two major U.S. carriers, have a significant presence here, fueling their passenger numbers.

But DIA is not all business. With an array of art installations, including the legendary (and infamous) blue Mustang statue, there’s a touch of intrigue in its corridors.

For those passing through, the airport offers a unique blend of efficiency, art, and a hint of mountain spirit. It’s a snapshot of Colorado, all under one massive roof!

4. O’Hare International Airport (KORD)

Chicago, Illinois

68,340,619

Buckle up, because we’re touching down in the Windy City at O’Hare International Airport, commonly referred to as “ORD” or just “O’Hare.”

Located in Chicago, this airport is a historically fierce competitor for the title of the world’s busiest airport.

O’Hare is the crossroads of America. Its strategic location in the heart of the U.S. makes it an essential stop for domestic and international flights. O’hare is the stomping ground for United Airlines and American Airlines, both of whom have massive operations here.

What sets O’Hare apart?

Maybe it’s the mesmerizing light sculpture in the underground walkway between terminals, or perhaps it’s the commitment to eco-friendly initiatives, with urban gardens and even beehives on site.

But one thing’s for sure: whether you’re grabbing a slice of deep-dish pizza between flights or just marveling at the airport’s vastness, O’Hare encapsulates the energy and spirit of Chicago.

It’s a bustling junction where the world meets the Midwest.

5. Dubai International Airport (OMDB)

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

66,069,981 Passengers

Jetting off to a world of luxury, we land at Dubai International Airport. Located in the heart of the United Arab Emirates, this airport is where the East meets the world.

Dubai isn’t just about gold and glitz; it’s a testament to what human ambition can achieve. The airport is no exception. Serving as the main base for Emirates, one of the world’s premier airlines, Dubai International is a global hub for travelers hopping between continents.

The scale and grandeur of everything here is staggering. From the world-class lounges (think showers, spas, and gourmet food) to the expansive duty-free shopping area, Dubai International is less an airport and more a luxury experience.

But beyond the modern exterior lies an efficient machine, connecting millions of passengers to over 270 destinations across six continents (no flights to Antarctica yet, unfortunately).

If you ever find yourself here, take a moment, sip on some Arabic coffee, and soak in the blend of tradition and modernity.

6. Los Angeles International Airport (KLAX)

Los Angeles, California

65,924,298 Passengers

Cruising over to the Golden State, we arrive at Los Angeles International Airport, universally known as “LAX.”

Nestled in the heart of Southern California, this airport is the gateway to Hollywood’s glitz, surfers’ paradises, and everything in between.

LAX is one of the prime entry points for international visitors to the U.S., especially from the Asia-Pacific region. Major carriers, including American and Delta, lay claim to significant operations here.

Beyond the practical, there’s a unique charm to LAX. Its iconic Theme Building, with its futuristic “flying saucer” design, is an example of its mid-century expansion.

And the newly-renovated terminals? They’re jam-packed with eateries and shops that capture the essence of Los Angele’s diverse culture.

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, LAX is an airport that deserves its iconic reputation.

7. Istanbul Airport (LTFM)

Istanbul, Turkey

64,289,107 Passengers

Venturing to where East meets West, we touch down at Istanbul Airport. Perched at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, this airport is a testament to Turkey’s age-old role as a bridge between continents.

Istanbul Airport became fully operational in 2019, replacing Atatürk Airport (which couldn’t expand because of its location). Turkish Airlines, the national flag carrier, anchors its operations here, seamlessly connecting passengers from North America to Asia and beyond.

One cannot ignore the fusion of culture and modernity here. The design aesthetics echo elements of Istanbul’s rich heritage, from Byzantine mosaics to Ottoman motifs, all while integrating state-of-the-art technology for traveler comfort.

If you have a layover, take a moment to explore. Luxurious lounges, vibrant bazaars, and a plethora of dining options give travelers a tiny glimpse of the grandeur Istanbul has to offer.

8. Heathrow Airport (EGLL)

London, United Kingdom

61,614,508 Passengers

Our next stop is the iconic British hub, Heathrow Airport. A short distance away from central London, Heathrow stands as a symbol of the UK’s storied aviation history and its bustling present.

Heathrow has been a beacon for international travelers since its inception. It’s home to British Airways, but it also hosts a number of international carriers.

From the Concorde‘s legendary flights to the massive A380s today, Heathrow’s runways have seen it all.

From classic pubs serving up pints and pies to luxury boutiques displaying the best of British fashion, a stroll through Heathrow’s terminals feels like a mini UK tour. Plus, with its extensive art exhibitions and bookshops galore, there’s a cultural flair on every corner.

Whether you’re en route to a global destination, the UK, or London, Heathrow is the British welcome. Fancy a cup of tea while you wait for your next flight?

9. Indira Gandhi International Airport (VIDP)

New Delhi, India

59,490,074 Passengers

Heading over to the Indian subcontinent, we find ourselves at Indira Gandhi International Airport in the heart of New Delhi. Aptly named after India’s first female Prime Minister, this airport serves as the front door to a nation of contrasts, colors, and rich traditions.

Indira Gandhi International Airport is an ever-evolving center of connectivity, serving as the chief hub for airlines like Air India and Vistara. The airport effortlessly marries the old with the new, acting as the launching pad for journeys both within India and beyond.

At Indira Gandhi International, you’re not just in transit; you’re beginning a journey into India’s vast landscape and culture.

10. Charles de Gaulle Airport (LFPG)

Paris, France

57,474,033 Passengers

Welcome to Charles de Gaulle Airport, the pride of Paris! Named after France’s former president and leader during World War II, this airport is as elegant and complex as a bottle of fine Bordeaux.

Known to many as “Paris-CDG” or “Roissy,” this hub stands tall as Air France‘s home base and one of Europe’s primary gateways, as well as a key city for easyJet.

Its spiderweb of terminals, pathways, and satellite buildings can seem like a maze, but therein lies its charm.

If the Eiffel Tower is Paris’ iconic landmark, then CDG is its aerial counterpart – and it’s not going to slow down any time soon.

Worthy Mentions

• John F. Kennedy International Airport – 55,287,693 Passengers
• Harry Reid International Airport – 52,694,312 Passengers
• Amsterdam Airport Schiphol – 52,472,188 Passengers
• Miami International Airport – 50,684,396 Passengers
• Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport – 50,602,864  Passengers
• Tokyo Haneda Airport – 50,290,705 Passengers
• Orlando International Airport – 50,176,103 Passengers
• Frankfurt Airport – 48,918,482 Passengers
• Charlotte Douglas International Airport – 47,758,605 Passengers
• Mexico City International Airport – 46,261,729 Passengers