A New Report Highlights the Busiest Airports Worldwide—With Half Located in the U.S.

International travel has rebounded. In 2023, global air passenger numbers soared to nearly 8.5 billion, a 27 percent increase compared to 2022 and reaching 94 percent of the 2019 figures, according to Airports Council International (ACI).

Passenger growth was driven by several factors, as stated by ACI's world director general, Luis Felipe de Oliveira, notably including the reopening of China's borders following the pandemic.

This week, ACI unveiled its latest list of the 10 busiest airports globally, based on traffic statistics from 2023, with five airports in the U.S. making the top 10. Paris–Charles de Gaulle has fallen off this year’s list after ranking 10th last year, allowing Tokyo Haneda International Airport to make its debut.

Furthermore, Dubai International Airport ascended to second place on the 2023 list, pushing Dallas–Fort Worth International Airport out of its No. 2 ranking, while Tokyo Haneda achieved an impressive leap from 16th place in 2022 to 5th in 2023,” de Oliveira remarked in a statement.

Which airport holds the title of the busiest in the world?

Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport once again claims the title of the world’s busiest airport. In 2023, it welcomed 104.65 million passengers, according to ACI, representing an almost 12 percent rise from the 93.7 million who traveled through Atlanta in 2022. Although Atlanta led the list in 2022, its passenger numbers from that year were still 5 percent lower than the traffic recorded in 2019, as air travel continues to rebound from the pandemic downturn.

What are the top 10 busiest airports globally?

1. Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (104.65 million passengers)

With 104.65 million travelers passing through its terminals last year, Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) continues to serve as a key connecting hub for air travel in the United States, particularly for passengers flying with Delta Air Lines and its affiliates. However, it offers much more than just impressive passenger numbers.

Regarding airport lounges, being Delta's headquarters means there’s at least one Delta Sky Club in all seven concourses (A, B, C, D, E, F, and T). Additionally, there’s an American Airlines Admirals Club, a United Club, and The Club at ATL, which is accessible to Priority Pass holders and those who purchase a day pass. Atlanta also boasts an ambitious art program featuring both permanent and rotating exhibitions.

In recent years, Atlanta’s expansive airport has significantly enhanced its culinary offerings. With over 100 dining options, you can find the acclaimed upscale American restaurant One Flew South in Concourse E, along with a Shake Shack in Concourse A. If you find yourself in Concourse C, don’t miss the Varsity for chili dogs (another location is in Concourse F) or the Original El Taco for a unique Mexican menu (fried chicken tacos, anyone?). You can also indulge in Southern comfort food at Chicken + Beer in Concourse D.

2. Dubai International Airport (87 million passengers)

This expansive global hub in the United Arab Emirates ranks second in total passenger traffic for 2023 and leads in international passenger volume for the same year. Dubai International Airport (DBX) has seen a remarkable recovery over the past two years, moving up to the second position from 5th place in 2022 and 27th in 2021.

Dubai International Airport consists of three terminals. Terminal 3, which houses Concourses A, B, and C, is dedicated to the UAE's flag carrier, Emirates. Terminal 2 caters to charter and special-use flights, while Terminal 1 features the large Concourse D, serving all other international airlines. In 2022, the bulk of DBX's passengers came from India, Saudi Arabia, the U.K., Pakistan, and the U.S., with top destinations from Dubai including London, Riyadh, and Mumbai.

In Terminal 1, travelers can enjoy nine lounges, including those for Sky Team, British Airways, and Lufthansa. Dining and shopping options abound throughout the terminal, with eateries and fast-casual spots like the Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck, Pret A Manger, Starbucks, Costa Coffee, and Krispy Kreme (perfect for those early-morning layovers). For Emirates passengers, Terminal 3 features multiple Emirates lounges as well as the ever-popular Shake Shack and a Hard Rock Café for some music-themed fun. As for shopping, Dubai Duty Free averages 2.9 million bottles of perfume, 4.5 million pounds of chocolate, and nearly 6,000 pounds of gold sold each year, showcasing the immense retail activity at this hub.

3. Dallas–Fort Worth International Airport (81.75 million passengers)

Dallas–Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is so large that it could be likened to a small city, covering over 26 square miles and featuring five terminals with 168 gates. The airport has recently secured a $35 million federal grant to build a zero-carbon electrical plant, aiming for net-zero carbon emissions by 2030.

If you find yourself with some extra time at this expansive travel hub, you’re in luck, as there are several great dining options. In Terminal A, for a nice sit-down experience, try Ling & Louie’s for elevated Asian cuisine. For a last taste of barbecue before flying out, visit the Salt Lick BBQ or enjoy a hearty burger at Twisted Root. In Terminal B, you can relax with a glass of wine in an elegant setting at Decanted and savor smoked meats and sides at Cousins BBQ. Terminal C features a reliable Shake Shack, while Terminal D boasts the Fort Worth coffeehouse Brewed, and for Mexican-inspired food and drinks, head to Blue Mesa Taco & Tequila Bar in Terminal E.

Lounges available include the American Airlines Flagship First lounge, Admirals Clubs, Delta Sky Club, United Club, Capital One Lounge, Centurion Lounge, and the Club at DFW for Priority Pass members.

Additional enjoyable amenities include Spa Here for massages, haircuts, and nail treatments in Terminal C; Minute Suites for napping in Terminal A; and Gameway, a video game lounge located in Terminal B. There's also a children's play area (courtesy of McDonald's) in Terminal D near gate D8.

4. London’s Heathrow Airport (79.2 million passengers)

Serving as the primary international gateway for the United Kingdom’s capital, London’s Heathrow Airport (LHR) comprises four busy terminals—2, 3, 4, and 5, as Terminal 1 was closed in 2015. Future plans include the construction of a third runway and a new terminal building. In the meantime, the expansive airport offers a wide range of services and amenities.

Heathrow features an online restaurant directory that links to menus for nearly all airport venues and highlights those that cater to special dietary requirements (such as kosher, vegan, or gluten-free) and family-friendly options. Passengers can use a mobile ordering app to pre-order food and drinks for quick pickup at select airport restaurants. Some establishments, like Gordon Ramsay Plane Food, even offer picnic-style meals that travelers can take on board their flights. The airport boasts numerous lounges, including various British Airways locations, three airport hotels, a Be Relax spa in Terminal 5, play areas in all terminals, and a multitude of shops to explore.

5. Tokyo Haneda International Airport (78.7 million passengers)

Tokyo Haneda International Airport (HND) has achieved the greatest growth in 2023, with its passenger numbers soaring by 55 percent compared to 2022, elevating it to 5th place this year from 16th last year.

Situated around 10 miles from central Tokyo, Haneda is one of the two main airports serving the city, the other being Narita International Airport. Unlike Narita, which is about an hour's drive from downtown, Haneda offers a significant advantage due to its closer proximity while accommodating many international airlines, including American, United, Air Canada, British Airways, Lufthansa, KLM, Japan Airlines (JAL), All Nippon Airways (ANA), Singapore Airlines, and Qantas.

Haneda features three terminals: Terminal 1 (T1), Terminal 2 (T2), and Terminal 3 (T3). Terminals 1 and 2 primarily handle domestic flights, with Japan Airlines (JAL) operating from Terminal 1 and All Nippon Airways (ANA) from Terminal 2.

Terminal 3 serves as the international terminal and boasts unique attractions such as the Edo marketplace, designed to resemble a traditional Tokyo street lined with small food stalls and souvenir shops. There’s also a section called Tokyo Pop Town, showcasing anime-themed stores, and a Starry Cafe Planetarium that features an actual planetarium. If you're departing from Haneda, you can enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine and pick up some souvenirs.

Haneda is easily accessible from Tokyo through the subway on the Keikyu Line or the Tokyo Monorail.

6. Denver International Airport (77.8 million)

In late 2022, Denver International Airport (DEN) completed a significant expansion that added 39 new gates to the mountain airport, increasing the total number of gates across its three terminals to 90, marking a 30 percent boost in capacity. The airport also introduced three outdoor decks for travelers to enjoy fresh air and scenic views of Colorado, along with family seating areas, nursing rooms, upgraded restrooms, charging stations, workstations, and relaxation spaces.

As a major transfer hub, Denver is a common stop for travelers even if they’re not flying directly to or from the city. During layovers, you can find excellent dining options in each terminal. In Concourse A, Breckenridge Brewery serves a variety of local beers, while Brothers BBQ offers hearty barbecue sandwiches. For a quick meal, visit the Denver Central Market near gate A48, featuring Culture Meat & Cheese, SK Provisions for breakfast, Sushi Rama, and Vero Italian. In Concourse B, which is home to United flights, Snooze serves hearty breakfast options, and Elway’s provides a nice sit-down experience for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. You can also find CRÚ Food and Wine Bar and Shake Shack here. If you’re departing from Concourse C, don’t miss Root Down, a vibrant spot offering locally sourced dishes along with cocktails, wine, and craft beers. Alternatively, grab some filling Mexican food at Tamales La Casita and save room for a sweet treat from Little Man Ice Cream before your flight.

One of the highlights of Denver International Airport is its outdoor plaza, which features an ice skating rink and hosts live music performances during the holiday season, from mid-November to early January. Travelers can borrow complimentary skates from the Westin hotel located at the plaza.

The Denver hub is renowned for its vast art collection. It houses an American Airlines Admirals Club, an American Express Centurion Lounge, a Delta Sky Club, and the largest United Club to date, along with the new United Club Fly concept offering grab-and-go snacks.

7. Istanbul Airport (76 million)

Istanbul Airport (IST) has notably outpaced its 2019 passenger figures, soaring by an impressive 46 percent. This surge may be attributed to the airport's status as a newer facility (with its first phase opening in October 2018), designed to eventually handle up to 200 million passengers annually—more than three times the capacity of its predecessor, Atatürk International Airport, which closed in 2019.

Situated 22 miles north of downtown, Istanbul Airport is set to become a sprawling 29.5 square-mile facility (bigger than Manhattan) featuring six runways. The terminal's architecture draws inspiration from Istanbul's iconic domed mosques and baths, while the air traffic control tower resembles a tulip, a traditional symbol of the city.

If you have some time to relax here, consider visiting the Turkish Airlines lounge (if accessible to you—Star Alliance members are also welcomed) for a culinary experience. The lounge offers a taste of Turkish cuisine, along with relaxation areas, restrooms, shower facilities, and a children's zone, making it a perfect retreat for both business travelers and families. For those needing an overnight stay or a more extensive rest, a 451-room Yotel is conveniently located both pre- and post-security. The terminal also hosts numerous dining options, including Shake Shack for burgers, Godiva for desserts, Mövenpick for ice cream, elevated Italian cuisine at Pizzeria Enzo, and many Turkish establishments for food, coffee, and delicacies.

8. Los Angeles International Airport (75 million)

LAX, the airport's commonly used nickname (derived from its airport code), is undergoing a significant transformation. This vast Southern California airport has recently initiated multiple major construction projects aimed at easing the traffic congestion it often encounters. Among these developments is an electric rail system that will connect public transportation to the airport upon its completion. Additionally, LAX is evolving in various other aspects.

What used to be a limited selection of dining options at the airport has now transformed into a commendable array of culinary experiences. Highlights include the fast-casual seafood eatery Slapfish and the upscale SeaLegs Wine Bar (both located in Terminal 2). In the Tom Bradley International Terminal, you can enjoy unique burgers at Umami Burger and innovative Mexican dishes at Border Grill. For some comfort food and refreshing beverages inspired by Southern California, check out Lemonade in Terminal 5. Meanwhile, Wahoo’s Fish Taco in Terminal 6 is a favorite spot for delicious fish tacos from SoCal.

After refueling, take the time to explore the various art installations scattered throughout the airport. There's also a fun surf-themed play area in the Tom Bradley International Terminal, perfect for families needing to pass the time between flights. Every major U.S. airline has one or more lounges at LAX, alongside several international carriers, credit card companies, and airline alliance networks.

9. Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport (74 million)

This bustling Midwestern airport features 193 gates and four terminals (Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 5—Terminal 4 is absent) and has been steadily improving its offerings. For instance, the food selections at O’Hare International Airport (ORD) have significantly enhanced, largely due to the celebrity chef Rick Bayless's Tortas Frontera. You can find three locations within O’Hare (in Terminals 1, 3, and 5) serving up perfectly toasted tortas. For something lighter, check out Wicker Park Seafood and Sushi Bar in Terminals 1 and 2.

If you want to get active during your layover, the Hilton Athletic Club located inside the Hilton Chicago O’Hare Airport Hotel offers day passes that grant access to a steam room, sauna, lap pool, and locker facilities. You can also find a yoga room and urban garden in Terminal 3, or relax at the Terminal Getaway Spa in Terminal 1 for some pre-flight tranquility. Additionally, there’s a family lounge in Terminal 2 near gate F1 with a play area for children, and nursing rooms are available in all four terminals.

O’Hare boasts a variety of airport lounges, including an American Airlines Flagship Lounge and Admirals Club, a Delta Sky Club, as well as a United Club and a Polaris Lounge.

10. Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, India (72.2 million)

This primary international airport serving India’s capital comprises Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3, with Terminal 3 being the largest single terminal in India and the fifth largest globally. Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) stands as India’s premier international hub, boasting three operational runways—the only airport in the country to do so.

Additionally, this hub is the first carbon-neutral airport in the Asia Pacific Region, recognized by ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation Program, featuring a substantial on-site solar power plant and an energy efficiency initiative.

Terminal 3 is spacious and offers a variety of lounges, additional services, and fast-casual dining options. It also includes a children’s play area, a gaming zone named Amoeba, and a flight simulator called the Cockpit.

How do the 2023 rankings of the world’s busiest airports stack up against last year’s?

In 2021, eight of the top ten busiest airports worldwide were located in the United States, with the other two in China. By the following year, the landscape had become significantly more international, with major global hubs reclaiming their positions at the top.

According to ACI World Director General Luis Felipe de Oliveira, 'While U.S. airport hubs recovered faster due to their robust domestic market, we are now observing global hubs such as Dubai, Istanbul, and London Heathrow entering the upper ranks,' reflecting the shift from 2021's airport rankings to the top ten list for 2022.

In 2022, the following airports were recognized as the top 10 busiest in the world based on passenger traffic:

1. Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (93.7 million passengers)
2. Dallas–Fort Worth International Airport (73.4 million passengers)
3. Denver International Airport (69.3 million passengers)
4. Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport (68.3 million passengers)
5. Dubai International Airport (66 million passengers)
6. Los Angeles International Airport (65.9 million passengers)
7. Istanbul Airport (64.3 million passengers)
8. London’s Heathrow Airport (61.6 million passengers)
9. Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, India (59.5 million passengers)
10. Paris–Charles de Gaulle Airport (57.5 million passengers)

This article was initially published in August 2019 and updated on April 15, 2024, with the latest information.