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Think you know the US Busiest Airports? If not, study up with the top 10 by total passengers.
1. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) – 50.95M Passengers
Known as the busiest airport in the world for passenger traffic, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport serves as a major hub for domestic and international travel. Located in Atlanta, Georgia, ATL connects passengers across the southeastern United States and beyond, thanks to its strategic position. The airport is a primary hub for Delta Air Lines, facilitating a vast network of flights, including frequent connections to key destinations worldwide. With two terminals and multiple concourses, Hartsfield-Jackson offers efficient services for millions of travelers annually. Its impressive passenger volume highlights its significance in the global aviation industry.
2. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – 40.96M Passengers
As the primary airport serving Los Angeles, California, LAX is a major gateway for travelers heading to and from the Pacific Rim. Known for its iconic “Theme Building” and proximity to Hollywood, LAX is a hub for numerous airlines, including American Airlines and Delta Air Lines. The airport offers flights to many destinations across North America, Asia, Europe, and South America. Due to its role as a global gateway, LAX regularly handles a high volume of passengers, especially those traveling for tourism, entertainment, and business. Its convenient location and extensive flight network make it a vital airport in the U.S.
3. Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) – 39.25M Passengers
Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport serves as a critical hub in the United States, particularly for the southern region. Located between Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas, DFW is the primary hub for American Airlines, which operates a large share of flights from this airport. Known for its vast size, DFW even has its own postal code and ranks as one of the largest airports in the world by area. The airport is designed for efficiency, with multiple terminals and a unique “AirTrain” system that allows passengers to move quickly between gates. DFW provides a mix of domestic and international flights, making it an essential gateway for Texas and the nation.
4. Denver International Airport (DEN) – 37.86M Passengers
Denver International Airport, located in Colorado, is known for its distinctive peaked roof, which resembles snow-capped mountains. As one of the largest airports in the United States by area, DEN handles a significant volume of traffic, particularly for connections across the western U.S. and the Rocky Mountain region. United Airlines and Southwest Airlines are key carriers at Denver, facilitating a range of domestic routes as well as international destinations. Denver’s strategic location and modern infrastructure make it a crucial hub, catering to travelers heading to both domestic and international destinations.
5. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) – 35.84M Passengers
Chicago O’Hare International Airport has long been a central hub for air travel in the Midwest, with extensive connections to both domestic and international destinations. Located on the northwest side of Chicago, Illinois, ORD is a major hub for United Airlines and American Airlines. The airport is known for its advanced technology and continuous improvements, including the recent addition of new runways and terminal upgrades. O’Hare’s capacity and efficiency make it a key player in the U.S. aviation industry, helping millions of passengers connect between the East and West Coasts.
6. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) – 30.80M Passengers
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is one of the busiest airports in the United States and a major gateway for international air travel. Located in Queens, New York City, it opened in 1948 as New York International Airport, commonly known as Idlewild Airport, but was later renamed in 1963 to honor the late President John F. Kennedy. JFK Airport spans over 5,000 acres and consists of six passenger terminals, offering flights to destinations across six continents.
7. Orlando International Airport (MCO) – 28.03M Passengers
Orlando International Airport is located in central Florida and is one of the busiest airports in the United States due to its proximity to world-famous theme parks, such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. Serving both international and domestic travelers, MCO is a hub for tourism and is well-connected to major cities across the U.S. and worldwide. The airport provides numerous amenities catering to family travelers and tourists, and its efficiency and visitor-friendly services have contributed to its high passenger volume. Orlando International plays a critical role in Florida’s tourism industry, helping millions of visitors reach their destinations each year.
8. Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) – 27.90M Passengers
Located near the Las Vegas Strip, Harry Reid International Airport is a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers seeking entertainment in Las Vegas, Nevada. Formerly known as McCarran International, LAS provides a wide range of services tailored to the needs of both business and leisure travelers. The airport features gaming areas and numerous restaurants, offering travelers a glimpse of Las Vegas’ entertainment culture. Southwest Airlines is the largest carrier at LAS, making the airport an essential hub for flights across the western U.S. and a key airport for visitors to Las Vegas.
9. Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) – 25.90M Passengers
Charlotte Douglas International Airport, located in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a key hub for American Airlines. Serving as one of the primary gateways in the southeastern United States, CLT connects passengers to a variety of domestic and international destinations. The airport has grown rapidly over recent years, both in terms of passenger volume and infrastructure. Its central location in the U.S. makes it an ideal stop for flights along the East Coast. Charlotte Douglas is known for its efficiency, friendly customer service, and modern amenities, making it popular among travelers and an essential hub for American Airlines.
10. Miami International Airport (MIA) – 24.72M Passengers
Miami International Airport serves as the primary gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean, connecting millions of travelers to these regions each year. Located in Miami, Florida, MIA is a major hub for American Airlines and has a significant volume of international flights. The airport is known for its modern facilities and efficient operations, and it caters to a diverse array of passengers, including business travelers, tourists, and those making connections to Central and South America. Miami International’s role as a prominent international hub solidifies its place among the busiest airports in the U.S.
