Explore the 20 Busiest Airports in the United States

After four years of the pandemic transforming major airports into deserted spaces, U.S. airports are thriving once more. These large transport hubs are swiftly implementing ambitious renovation and expansion initiatives, unveiling a variety of new clubs and lounges for travelers seeking respite from the crowds, alongside numerous new dining options and services to enhance the experience for passengers.

Currently, the entire U.S. aviation infrastructure is undergoing a much-needed overhaul, fueled by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law from 2021, which allocated an impressive $25 billion for airport modernization. This funding aims to prepare facilities for a future influx of travelers by replacing outdated terminals, minimizing the risks of runway incidents, enhancing cleanliness and sustainability, and supporting major capacity expansion efforts.

This renovation wave coincides with rising passenger volumes. On July 7, 2024, the U.S. marked its busiest air travel day ever, with over 3 million passengers navigating Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints. Where are these travelers headed? Earlier this summer, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) released statistics detailing air travel at U.S. airports in 2023, highlighting the airports with the highest passenger counts. Based on this data, here’s the rundown of the busiest U.S. airports and tips for navigating these bustling hubs.

Which airport is the busiest in the United States?

The busiest airport in the United States is Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). This airport also holds the title of the world’s busiest airport. In 2023, it saw 50.95 million passengers board flights, marking a 12 percent rise from 45.4 million enplanements in 2022, according to the FAA.

The 20 busiest airports in the United States

1. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (50.95 million)

Situated just 10 miles from downtown Atlanta, Georgia’s Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) serves as a significant hub for both domestic and international travel—particularly for passengers flying with Delta Air Lines and its affiliates. The sprawling 6.8 million-square-foot terminal complex features 152 domestic gates and 40 international gates.

As Delta's headquarters, every one of the seven concourses (A, B, C, D, E, F, and T) houses at least one Delta Sky Club. Additionally, you’ll find an American Airlines Admirals Club, a United Club, and the Club at ATL, which is accessible to Priority Pass holders and those who buy a day pass.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport boasts an impressive art program, featuring both permanent and rotating exhibits for travelers with some free time. For those needing a bite before boarding, there are over 100 dining options, including the acclaimed upscale American restaurant One Flew South in Concourse E, Shake Shack in Concourse A, the famous Varsity for chili dogs in Concourses C and F, Original El Taco serving innovative Mexican cuisine (how about fried chicken tacos?) in Concourse C, and Ludacris’ Chicken + Beer offering Southern comfort dishes in Concourse D. (A Chicken + Beer is also available at Los Angeles International Airport.)

2. Dallas–Fort Worth International Airport (39.2 million)

Covering 26 square miles with five terminals (A, B, C, D, and E), 171 gates, and 7 runways, Dallas–Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) resembles a small city—it’s even larger than Manhattan, which is 22.7 square miles, and it has its own zip code. Despite its vast size, the airport aims to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2030, partly thanks to a $35 million federal grant for a zero-carbon electrical facility.

If you find yourself with some extra time in this vast travel hub, you're in luck—there are plenty of good dining options. In Terminal A, check out Ling & Louie’s for a delightful sit-down meal featuring creative Asian dishes, indulge in some barbecue at Salt Lick BBQ before your flight, or grab a serious burger at Twisted Root. Over in Terminal B, enjoy a glass of wine at the elegant Decanted and savor smoked meats and sides at Cousins Bar-B-Q. Terminal C has the reliable Shake Shack, while Terminal D features the Fort Worth coffee spot Brewed, and you can find Mexican-inspired fare at 2.0 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 holders.

Some other enjoyable amenities include Spa Here in Terminal C, offering massages, haircuts, and nail services; Minute Suites in Terminal A for quick naps; and Gameway, a video game lounge, in Terminal B. Additionally, there's a children's play area provided by McDonald’s in Terminal D near gate D8.

3. Denver International Airport (37.9 million)

In 2022, Denver International Airport (DEN) completed an expansion project that added 39 new gates, bringing the total to 148, and increased the terminal’s capacity by 30 percent. This upgrade is essential given the volume of travelers passing through this major transit hub.

Denver International Airport features three concourses: A, B, and C, which align with their respective gates. Following recent expansions, the airport has added three new outdoor decks, family seating areas, nursing rooms, updated restrooms, charging stations, and workstations.

In addition to its iconic architecture with striking peaks on the roof, the Denver airport is renowned for its extensive art collection—definitely worth exploring before your flight. During the holiday season, from mid-November to early January, an ice skating rink and live music performances can be found in the airport’s outdoor plaza.

Frequent flyers can find respite from the crowds at several clubs and lounges, including an American Airlines Admirals Club, the American Express Centurion Lounge, Delta Sky Club, and both a United Club and the new United Club Fly concept.

For those not using the lounges, there are plenty of great dining options throughout the concourses. In Concourse A, Breckenridge Brewery serves local craft beers, Brothers BBQ offers hefty sandwiches, and Denver Central Market (near gate A48) features a variety of reliable fast-casual choices. In Concourse B, you can enjoy breakfast at Snooze, a sit-down meal at Elway’s, or visit CRÚ Food and Wine Bar and Shake Shack. In Concourse C, take some time to savor locally sourced cuisine and cocktails or craft beers at the vibrant Root Down. You can also grab a bite at Tamales La Casita and then treat yourself to Little Man Ice Cream.

4. Los Angeles International Airport (36.7 million)

Commonly referred to as LAX (its airport code), this sprawling Southern California airport is undergoing a significant transformation. Recent groundbreaking on several major construction projects aims to ease the traffic woes that have long plagued the airport. Among these is an electric rail system called the People Mover, which will enhance public transportation access to and from LAX and is expected to be completed by 2025 (after several delays). LAX is also evolving in other exciting ways.

The once limited dining options at the airport have blossomed into a diverse array of culinary experiences. Notable spots include the fast-casual seafood eatery Slapfish and the upscale SeaLegs Wine Bar (both located in Terminal 2). You can also enjoy unique burgers at Umami Burger and inventive Mexican dishes at Border Grill in the Tom Bradley International Terminal. The international terminal features a fun surf-themed play area for kids to burn off some energy before their flight.

After you’ve had a bite, be sure to explore the various art installations throughout the airport. Every major U.S. airline has one or more lounges at LAX, along with several international carriers, credit card companies, and airline alliance networks.

5. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (35.8 million)

Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) serves as the primary global hub for this vibrant Midwestern city, featuring 193 gates distributed among four terminals (Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 5—note that there is no Terminal 4).

O’Hare boasts several 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.

For those looking to stay active between flights, the Hilton Athletic Club at 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 visit the yoga room and urban garden in Terminal 3 or relax at the Terminal Getaway Spa in Terminal 1 for some preflight tranquility. Terminal 2 features a family lounge near gate F1 with a play area for children, and all four terminals have nursing rooms available.

When it comes to dining options, you can find three locations of chef Rick Bayless's Tortas Frontera at O’Hare (in Terminals 1, 3, and 5), where you can enjoy perfectly toasted tortas. For a lighter option, try the Wicker Park Seafood and Sushi Bar located in Terminals 1 and 2.

6. John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York (30.5 million)

Significant renovations are in progress at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), with an ambitious $19 billion upgrade launched last year. Once completed, the airport will reduce its six existing terminals (confusingly numbered 1 through 8—since terminals 3 and 6 were demolished over ten years ago) to four, featuring two new complexes at either end of the airport.

As part of the “A New JFK” initiative, terminals 2 and 7 (previously used by Delta Air Lines and British Airways, respectively) will be torn down. A new Terminal 1 will be built on the south side for major airlines like Air France and Lufthansa, which will connect to an expanded Terminal 4, currently home to Delta and various international carriers. On the opposite end, a new Terminal 6, primarily for JetBlue, will be constructed next to Terminal 5. Meanwhile, American Airlines’ Terminal 8 has recently seen upgrades, including new lounges and five additional gates for wide-body planes, following British Airways' shift from Terminal 7, which is scheduled for demolition in a few years. Clear as mud?

If you find yourself with some time at JFK, visit one of its architectural highlights, the Eero Saarinen–designed TWA Flight Center, now transformed into the TWA Hotel, a nostalgic homage to the glamour of the 1960s. Enjoy a sit-down meal at the Paris Café by Jean-Georges, featuring dishes inspired by inflight menus from the era, curated by renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. Alternatively, opt for the casual Food Hall, offering a variety of choices from bagels to tacos. For drinks, relax on a vibrant scarlet banquette in the Sunken Lounge or enjoy cocktails inside the vintage Lockheed Constellation (affectionately known as “Connie”) propeller plane parked outside, which now serves as a themed bar.

7. Orlando International Airport (28 million)

Travelers heading to or from Orlando are often en route to the area's popular theme parks, including the Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando. With numerous gift shops celebrating beloved franchises, you can easily grab any souvenirs you may have overlooked during your roller coaster adventures.

In 2022, Orlando International Airport (MCO) unveiled its new Terminal C, now hosting airlines such as JetBlue, Aer Lingus, British Airways, Emirates, and Lufthansa, among others. Terminal C features exciting new dining options, including Sunshine Diner by chef Art Smith, a fun twist on the classic diner offering all-day breakfast, burgers, patty melts, a kids' menu, and a selection of cocktails, wine, and beer. For innovative Southern cuisine, try Cask & Larder for chicken and waffles or pulled pork tacos.

A significant enhancement for Orlando airport is the addition of the Brightline high-speed train line, which now connects Miami and Orlando. The new 37,350-square-foot Brightline Orlando Station is located within a two-story glass atrium complex at the airport, adjacent to Terminal C. Access to the train station does not require a flight to or from the airport.

8. Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas (27.9 million)

Previously known as McCarran International Airport, the facility that serves southern Nevada and acts as the gateway to Las Vegas was renamed Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in December 2021, honoring the Nevada congressman who represented the state from 1983 to 2017. With over 27 million passengers passing through last year, most heading to the vibrant Strip filled with hotels and resorts, casinos, nightlife, and a thriving food scene, the airport itself offers little in terms of excitement. A basic transit hub, Harry Reid comprises two main terminals: Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 3 (T3).

For those departing from Terminal 1, your best options include Shake Shack near the B gates or Ruby’s Diner by the D gates for a hearty pre-flight burger-and-fries meal, or you can swing by the Jose Cuervo Tequileria near the C gates for a refreshing margarita with chips and guacamole. If you're in Terminal 3, your options may be limited, but no matter where you are, you can enjoy some slot machines for a final chance to win big—it is Vegas, after all.

9. Charlotte Douglas International Airport (25.9 million)

This may come as a surprise to some, but Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) in Charlotte, North Carolina, ranks among the busiest airports in the United States and globally. The airport features a central terminal surrounded by five concourses: A, B, C, D, and E. The number of travelers utilizing this Southern hub has nearly doubled in the last two decades, prompting a $4 billion renovation to accommodate the growing passenger traffic.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport features two American Airlines Admiral Clubs, an American Express Centurion Lounge, the Club CLT (where travelers can purchase a day pass), and a USO Lounge available for military personnel and their families. (Charlotte is a significant hub for military travel.)

To keep pace with modern airports, there are excellent dining and leisure options available, even if you’re not lounging. Private Minute Suites offer a space for napping, working, or freshening up (complete with showers), and two XpresSpa locations are perfect for a pre-flight massage or manicure. For gamers, there's a Gameway located in Concourse E.

If you’re in need of caffeine, stop by Commonspace for Counter Culture Coffee sourced from Durham, North Carolina. The airport also hosts an outpost of Asheville’s renowned Wicked Weed brewery (located in the Plaza) alongside the newly opened Charlotte-based Sycamore brewery. You can also indulge in Bojangles biscuits, Bad Daddy’s burgers, fresh salads at Chalice Cafe, and wrap up your visit with some last-minute shopping at the 1897 Market.

10. Miami International Airport (24.7 million)

Miami International Airport (MIA) acts as a primary gateway to the Caribbean, Latin America, and beyond. The airport is divided into a North Terminal (D gates), a Central Terminal (E, F, and G gates), and a South Terminal (H and J gates).

In June 2023, MIA made history as the first airport in Florida and only the second in the United States to receive the Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation (AEA) from Airports Council International (ACI). Over the past decade, Miami has initiated the MIAair tour program, allowing passengers with special needs to experience a practice run of air travel. The airport has also implemented accessibility lanes in U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) areas, established 10 charging stations for electric wheelchairs, provided sunflower lanyards for travelers with hidden disabilities, and created multi-sensory rooms in both its North and South terminals for neurodivergent individuals. Additionally, MIA offers access to the Aira Airport Network, a complimentary mobile service that provides navigation assistance for blind and low-vision travelers.

Miami airport has recently launched the MIA2Go app, enabling travelers to order food from any terminal online or through the app. For those craving Cuban cuisine, multiple Café Versailles locations can be found throughout the North and Central terminals, as well as Ku-Va near gate D19. Alternatively, you can visit the Miami Beach favorite Icebox, known for its brunch, offering a wide variety of meals with a healthy twist.

In addition to the top 10 busiest airports in the United States mentioned above, here are the other airports that complete the top 20 list.

11. Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA) - 24.6 million travelers
12. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) - 24.5 million travelers
13. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) - 24.2 million travelers
14. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) - 23.9 million travelers
15. George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston (IAH) - 22.2 million travelers
16. Logan International Airport in Boston (BOS) - 19.96 million travelers
17. Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport (FLL) - 17.042 million travelers
18. Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport (MSP) - 17.019 million travelers
19. LaGuardia Airport in New York (LGA) - 16.2 million travelers
20. Detroit Metro Wayne County Airport (DTW) - 15.4 million travelers

(Note: The FAA data referenced for this list pertains solely to passenger enplanements, meaning it only counts travelers boarding planes and does not include those disembarking. Airports Council International publishes an annual ranking of the world’s busiest airports, which considers both enplanements and deplanements, explaining the discrepancies between these figures and those in the global airports ranking.)

Reporting contributions by Barbara Peterson and Paul Rubio. This article was first published in August 2023 and updated on August 9, 2024, to reflect the latest information.