Air travel is booming in 2024, and with more flights than ever, America’s busiest airports are handling record numbers of passengers. Whether you’re flying for work, vacation, or just trying to get from A to B, knowing which airports are the most crowded can help you plan your journey better—and maybe avoid a few headaches along the way.
In this guide, we’re breaking down the top 20 busiest airports in the U.S., highlighting not just the numbers, but what each of these aviation hubs has to offer. Get ready for some sky-high stats, along with tips on how to make your next layover a little less stressful.
1. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
It’s no surprise that Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International tops the list yet again. Handling over 100 million passengers annually, ATL is not just the busiest airport in the U.S., but in the world. With its massive layout, plenty of dining options, and easy connections, it’s a favorite for both international and domestic travelers.
2. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
Everything’s bigger in Texas, including the airports! Dallas/Fort Worth International ranks second in the U.S. DFW has a massive number of gates and flights, serving as a key hub for American Airlines. If you’re flying domestically or internationally, there’s a good chance DFW will be on your radar.
3. Denver International Airport (DEN)
Denver International has not just climbed the ranks of passenger numbers but is also known for its sprawling design and unique art installations. With more than 69 million passengers, this Colorado airport is a popular layover spot for cross-country flights.
4. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
A classic contender, O’Hare International in Chicago remains one of the busiest airports in the country, handling 68 million passengers. With its extensive international and domestic routes, it’s no wonder travelers often find themselves in this Illinois hub.
5. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
LAX is synonymous with both glamour and chaos. As one of the biggest gateways to the Pacific, LAX services a whopping 61 million passengers. With renovations underway, the airport is expanding to meet the growing travel demand.
6. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
Phoenix Sky Harbor is a major player, serving 46 million travelers each year. Known for its efficiency and sunny vibes, PHX offers a smooth experience for both layovers and direct flights, especially for travelers heading to the Southwest.
7. Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Magic isn’t just at Disney. Orlando International serves as a hub for both vacationers and business travelers. Over 50 million passengers pass through its gates each year, many headed for the theme parks, beaches, or conventions.
8. Miami International Airport (MIA)
Miami International is the main gateway to Latin America, handling around 50 million passengers annually. With its palm trees and vibrant food scene, MIA is an ideal stop for international travelers heading to sunny locales.
9. Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)
Charlotte Douglas International is one of the fastest-growing airports, with over 47 million passengers. CLT’s growth is fueled by its role as a key hub for American Airlines, offering easy connections along the East Coast.
10. Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS)
Welcome to Las Vegas McCarran International, where the airport buzzes with excitement just like the Strip. Handling around 50 million passengers, LAS offers quick access to the casinos, conventions, and desert attractions that draw millions to Nevada.
11. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
A staple of East Coast air travel, Newark Liberty International moves around 40 million passengers annually. Known for its proximity to New York City, EWR is often a hub for international travelers heading across the Atlantic.
12. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
Seattle-Tacoma International, or Sea-Tac, handles over 46 million passengers each year. As the primary airport for the Pacific Northwest, it’s a crucial hub for both international flights and trips to tech hubs like Silicon Valley.
13. San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
San Francisco International is a major gateway to Asia and Europe, serving around 42 million passengers. With plenty of art, tech-forward amenities, and a stellar food scene, SFO is a favorite for frequent flyers.
14. Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
Logan International in Boston is the main gateway to New England, welcoming 42 million travelers annually. With direct flights to Europe, the Middle East, and domestic cities, BOS is a key player in the Northeast.
15. Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
George Bush Intercontinental in Houston is a major international gateway, handling around 40 million passengers. As a key hub for United Airlines, IAH offers extensive connections to Latin America and beyond.
16. Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW)
Detroit Metropolitan is a major Midwest hub, serving over 36 million passengers. Known for its efficient layout and sleek design, DTW is a favorite for layovers and connections.
17. Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
With 33 million passengers, Philadelphia International plays a big role on the East Coast travel scene. As a hub for American Airlines, PHL offers easy connections to Europe and the Caribbean.
18. Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
Salt Lake City International is rising in the ranks with over 28 million travelers. It’s particularly popular with skiers heading to Utah’s famed resorts and those seeking outdoor adventures in the Rockies.
19. Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)
Minneapolis-Saint Paul International handles over 33 million passengers annually. Known for its efficiency and traveler-friendly amenities, MSP is a key hub in the Upper Midwest.
20. Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
Washington Dulles International serves 29 million travelers annually and is one of the busiest international gateways in the U.S. With direct flights to Europe, Asia, and beyond, IAD is crucial for long-haul journeys.
Featured Image Credit: Pexels / Tim Mossholder.
The content of this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute or replace professional advice.
The images used are for illustrative purposes only and may not represent the actual people or places mentioned in the article.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
