It’s little wonder that a nation as competitive as the United States would lay claim to some of the biggest and busiest airports around. The US sees its fair share of air traffic, from foreign visitors curious to explore its depths to domestic travelers eager to experience the world. Since the Jet Age, the United States has been building and innovating its airports to support that ever-growing clamor for faster and easier ways to travel. So, if you’re curious to see how the US does it bigger and better, here’s a quick tour of the busiest airports that welcome more passenger traffic than most and the largest airports in the US that’ll leave you in awe of their size.
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Table of Contents
- What Is the #1 Airport in the US?
- What Are the Busiest Airports in the US?
- What Are the Biggest Airports in the US?
- What’s the Best Way to Score Deals from Both?
What Is the #1 Airport in the US?
The #1 airport in the US is Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Atlanta, Georgia. Though by far not the biggest airport in the US in size, it sees more passenger traffic than any other in the country. At its peak in 2019, it served 110.5 million passengers, a figure no other airport has come close to breaking before or since.
What Are the Busiest Airports in the US?
Surprisingly enough, the busiest airports in the US aren’t always the biggest. While some of the largest airports in the US are big enough to require their own zip code, other airports still manage to welcome and serve more passengers than even the biggest airports in the world, all while working with far less space.
So, which airports see the most passengers pass through their doors day after day? These hotshots are flying high as the top ten busiest airports in the US.
1. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL): Atlanta, GA – 104.6 Million Passengers
At 4,700 acres of land, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is big by any measure. But that impressive size is still over 1,000 acres less than it would need to garner a place among the top ten largest airports in the US. Luckily, what it doesn’t measure in size, it more than makes up for in traffic and efficiency. Atlanta serves more passengers than any other airport. Period. And, with the minor exception of 2020, it’s held the title of the world’s busiest airport since 1998.
ATL currently services 225 destinations worldwide through 26 domestic and foreign carriers. All those carriers and destinations mean the airport handles around 2,700 flights per day, overseen by the tallest air traffic control tower in North America.
With so much passenger traffic day in and day out, you might expect Atlanta to be a travel nightmare. However, the Air Transport Research Society named it the most efficient airport in the world in 2021, and even more recently, Business Traveler Awards named it the top airport in the world, largely due to its “relentless efficiency.”
Airport Pro-Tip: Grab a pair of noise-canceling headphones to cut down on all the sounds created by the many bodies and planes constantly moving in and out of ATL.
2. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW): Dallas, TX – 81.8 Million Passengers
Among the biggest and busiest airports in the US, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport comes soaring in to take number two on both lists. With numbers like 82 million people and over 17,000 acres, it’s little wonder that Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport is basically its own city—it even comes with its own zip code, police department, fire department, and medical emergency services.
So, while DFW can’t claim to be first, it still manages to be plenty impressive, largely thanks to its status as a hub for American Airlines. The airline’s monumental decision to move its headquarters to Dallas in 1973 helped shape the airport into what it is today: the southern gateway to the world. Nearly 30 airlines and seven runways spirit millions away to more than 250 global destinations.
Despite its size, or perhaps because of it, DFW has focused on minimizing its environmental impact to the point that it’s now the largest carbon-neutral airport in the world.
Airport Pro-Tip: Get a manageable bag with a smooth glide that’ll make pesky gate changes a breeze, even if your new gate happens to be on the other side of the airport.
3. Denver International Airport (DEN): Denver, CO – 77.8 Million Passengers
If busiest and biggest airports in the US were Olympic categories, Denver would take home two medals: bronze and gold. And while the airport might have fought for its third-place showing as the busiest, at just under 34,000 acres, it easily cleared the competition for biggest by a mile.
Denver International Airport currently supports 24 airlines flying to 200 destinations worldwide. But with plenty of room to grow, it currently has projects scheduled through 2045—including adding over 100 new gates and four new concourses. These projects are meant to support the over 120 million annual passengers expected to travel through Denver International Airport by then.
In the meantime, DEN already offers plenty to see and enjoy before the expansion is completed, including countless shops, an incredible art collection, and even outdoor decks. Travelers can pass the time ice skating in the Denver Plaza in winter, playing mini golf in the summer, or getting in some cuddles with volunteer therapy animals to help dispel any pre-flight jitters.
Even in the midst of the pandemic, travelers everywhere recognized and appreciated the experience at Denver International Airport to the level that Skytrax World Airport rated it one of the top airports in the world in 2020.
Airport Pro-Tip: Solve two problems at once for large airports—from long security lines to long walks to your gate—with a pair of comfortable, easy-to-slip-on shoes. Try out: Allbirds Tree Runners (Men | Women).
4. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): Los Angeles, CA – 75 Million Passengers
Is it any surprise that the City of Angels, home of the Hollywood Sign, would make its way onto the list of busiest airports in the US?
The iconic LAX serves as a hub for four legacy airlines: Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. With all that hubbub, it only makes sense that this is the busiest international airport on the West Coast. LAX serves as the Pacific gateway to popular destinations, from Hawaii to Tokyo, but with flights to over 150 cities on six continents, travelers are spoiled for choice.
In theory, the chaotic atmosphere of Los Angeles should make traveling through LAX a miserable affair. But that’s actually far from the reality. In fact, Los Angeles International Airport was rated one of the best large airports in the US by the Wall Street Journal. But, if flying through the fourth busiest airport in the country is still likely to stress you out, LAX offers plenty of options to relax before your flight.
Try grabbing a drink at one of the airport’s terrific restaurants, enjoying the artwork on display throughout the terminals, or kicking back at one of the many lounges housed inside, including the award-winning Star Alliance Lounge.
Airport Pro-Tip: Stay hydrated when traveling through LAX, where plastic water bottles are banned, with a reusable water bottle that’ll keep your water cold and keep you refreshed all day long.
5. O’Hare International Airport (ORD): Chicago, IL – 73.9 Million Passengers
The most populous city in the Midwest sees its main hub, O’Hare International Airport, thriving. At fifth place among the busiest airports in the country and fifth among the largest airports in the US, it does pretty well for a small Midwest town. And it all comes from humble beginnings.
Originally an aircraft manufacturing plant during WWII, after the war ended, Orchard Field—as it was then known—was chosen as the location for Chicago’s second airport. It opened commercially in 1955 and was the world’s busiest airport from 1963 to 1998 before it was dethroned by Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta. But while O’Hare may no longer be king of the country, it’s indisputably king of the Midwest and still growing, with projects planned over the next decade.
But even before expansions come into play, Chicago already has plenty going for it. Passengers can catch a flight to over 230 domestic and international destinations, all while enjoying the destination that is O’Hare itself. With first-class dining options, spa services guaranteed to relieve travel stress, and immersive art installations, O’Hare promises an unmatched aviation experience.
Airport Pro-Tip: Keep all your documents in one place with a well-organized travel wallet, and you’ll never hold up the line at TSA again.
6. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK): Queens, NY – 62.5 Million Passengers
In the City That Never Sleeps, neither does the airport. Like a few others on this list, JFK airport has dual citizenship on both the biggest and busiest airports lists, coming in as the ninth biggest and sixth busiest airport in the US.
Over 70 airlines operate out of JFK. With so many airlines under its roof, it’s no wonder JFK stands as a major gateway for the rest of the world entering the States, handling more international air traffic than any other airport in North America at 30.2 million passengers.
The airport is currently undergoing a massive $19 billion project to turn it into a modern airport fit for the 21st century. Titled “A New JFK,” The project will see the airport layout overhauled, with terminals demolished, added, and upgraded to include more gates, lounges, dining, and more to improve operations and the guest experience.
Though JFK is currently being redesigned into an airport fit for the modern day, visitors can still catch a peek at its past with a stay at the TWA Hotel. Originally an airport terminal and the head house of operations for the airport from 1962 to 2001, the TWA Flight Hotel now serves as a vintage rest stop for weary travelers. Sporting a classic 60s glamour, captured by the designer Eero Saarinen, the old terminal hosts several museum exhibits filled with the nostalgia of a bygone era.
Airport Pro-Tip: Never lose your luggage again, even at the worst airport for lost luggage, with a luggage tracker that lets you keep tabs on your travel bags.
7. Orlando International Airport (MCO): Orlando, FL – 57.7 Million Passengers
Home to the most magical place on earth, theme parks galore, and, oh yes, the third biggest airport in the world—Orlando International Airport is the seventh busiest airport in the US, by a hair. While the airport itself may not be the most magical place in Orlando, it does its job as a magical portal that spirits passengers away to adventure. With 44 airlines servicing routes to 135 destinations around the world, Orlando International Airport is a gateway to not only the Sunshine State’s most popular getaways but also places like the Caribbean, Latin America, and so much more.
In 2022, two years after the pandemic, MCO opened the doors of its new Terminal C. The completed terminal houses JetBlue, British Airways, Lufthansa, and various other international airports, alongside a smattering of restaurants and shops that include everything from the southern fare-focused Sunshine Diner to the SeaWorld Store for any last-minute souvenir needs. But the biggest convenience may be its location adjacent to MCO’s new train station, a decades-in-the-making project that will now ferry passengers all throughout Central and Southern Florida.
Building upon the airport’s aesthetic of air, wind, and sky, the new addition has brought the airport a slew of sustainability awards and allows MCO to further extend its capacity to 60 million annual passengers, a milestone it’s sure to pass in the near future.
Airport Pro-Tip: Bring along some packing cubes to make the most of your space; you’ll likely need those few extra inches to ensure you can fit all your souvenirs!
8. Harry Reid International Airport (LAS): Las Vegas, NV – 57.6 Million Passengers
Formerly McCarran International Airport, the new name might be a surprise to some non-frequent flyers, but as of December 2021, the airport officially became Harry Reid International Airport. (The name comes from a Nevada congressman who served from 1983 until 2017.) While the name may have changed, it’s still the same old Nevada airport.
With just two terminals, the Harry Reid International Airport offers little fanfare for visitors but undeniably gets the job done. At just over 30 airlines strong, the airport manages to provide flights to 150 destinations worldwide. But despite the many destinations on offer, the most popular ones remain close to home.
But, as only a place affectionately nicknamed Sin City could, Nevada’s airport does leave an impression. With the lights of the Strip a mere two miles away, visitors will find something that currently exists in only two airports in all of the US: slot machines. With over 1,000 slot machines inside the airport, visitors can get a taste of classic Las Vegas during their layover or get in one last hurrah before they leave behind the excitement of the Strip for good.
Airport Pro-Tip: Pack up your liquids in a clear toiletry case and stow your laptop in a travel bag with a compartment for easy access to get in and out faster from one of the slowest security lines in the US.
9. Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT): Charlotte, North Carolina – 53.4 Million Passengers
Seeing Charlotte Douglas International on this list may be a surprise for some, but likely not for those who travel through on a regular basis. With over 53 million annual passengers, CLT easily claims a top spot among the busiest airports in the US. It’s also one of the best-connected airports in the country, offering services to 180 global destinations and serving as the second-largest hub for American Airlines.
With that continued growth comes the need to expand, and like so many others on this list, Charlotte is currently undergoing major changes, including renovations, terminal expansions, and even the addition of a new runway, all set to take place over the next decade. But, as one of the smallest airports on this list, travelers will likely heave a sigh of relief while traveling through Charlotte Douglas. Boasting only one terminal building, with no need for trams or shuttles, and all gates accessible under one roof, the airport is astoundingly easy to navigate.
However, as with all works in progress, passengers will want to arrive early to ensure a stress-free flight. Thankfully, there’s plenty to do to keep busy in the airport, from planespotting to listening to live music in the Atrium. And the airport’s five concourses promise endless options for dining, shopping, and even relaxing. The Charlotte Airport is home to two American Airlines Admiral Clubs, an American Express Centurion Lounge, and even a USO club for military members and their families. And for a quick nap, travelers can’t miss grabbing an hour or two in Charlotte’s convenient Minute Suites.
Airport Pro-Tip: Keep your devices charged with a dependable power bank that’ll get you through long delays and even longer flights.
10. Miami International Airport (MIA): Miami-Dade County, Florida – 52.3 Million Passengers
Miami International Airport is a more recent addition to the list of top busiest airports in the US, but with Miami’s overall larger-than-life personality, it certainly feels like it’s been a long time coming. Clawing its way to the top during the height of the pandemic, Miami has comfortably stayed among the top ten, with the number of passengers consistently growing year over year. In accordance with that growth come plans to address MIA’s long-neglected maintenance issues and add on new structures in a multi-billion dollar project that will be carried out in phases over the next seven years.
However, while MIA plans for the future, travelers can still take advantage of it in the present. Miami’s lineup includes over 80 carriers flying to 170 destinations. As the third-busiest airport in the US for international passengers, it’s no surprise that Miami is a popular gateway for people traveling to and from Latin America, with frequent flights to Colombia, Brazil, Argentina, and more.
Despite some of its current shortcomings, from annoying delays to brutal cancellations, Miami Airport does have some things to be proud of, like its global accreditation for making the travel experience safe and inclusive for all travelers, including those with disabilities.
Airport Pro-Tip: Pack a comfortable jacket to deal with the changing temperatures, from the Southern Florida heat to the cool airport conditioning.
What Are the Biggest Airports in the US?
As we’ve now firmly established, the busiest airports in the US aren’t always the biggest. But, with that said, there are several airports that can claim the unique honor of being among both the top ten busiest and largest airports in the US:
- Denver International Airport: 34,000 acres – If not for the King Fahd International Airport in Saudi Arabia, Denver would be the biggest airport in the world.
- Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport: 17,183 acres – When it first opened, DFW was the largest airport in the world.
- Orlando International Airport: 12,264 acres – Orlando is both the largest and busiest airport in the Sunshine State.
- Washington Dulles International Airport: 12,000 acres – Washington Dulles International Airport was the first airport in the US designed for commercial jets.
- George Bush Intercontinental Airport: 10,000 acres – In the late 70s, Mickey Mouse himself cut the ribbon on a new tram system to help navigate the airport.
- Salt Lake City International Airport: 7,700 acres – SLC started out with just 400 acres and two gravel runways to become the sixth largest airport in the US.
- O’Hare International Airport: 7,627 acres – O’Hare boasts over 200 hundred gates, the most of any airport in the world, and has a strange motto for pilots: “Don’t stop moving.”
- San Francisco International Airport: 5,207 acres – Built along the San Andreas Fault, SFO’s International Terminal was built to withstand a Richter Magnitude 8 earthquake.
- John F. Kennedy International Airport: 4,930 acres – JFK’s impressive size houses everything from an abandoned hotel to a special runway reserved for Air Force One.
- Detroit Metropolitan Airport: 4,850 acres – An immersive LED tunnel that goes underground connects Concourses B/C with Concourse A.
What’s the Best Way to Score Deals from Both?
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