Top 10 Largest Airports in the World (2024)

There are over 41,000 airports worldwide but some are quite massive. Imagine airports so large that exploring their terminals is similar to exploring a small city. These are the top 10 largest airports in the world.

List of 10 Biggest Airports in the World

  1. King Fahd International
  2. Denver International
  3. Dallas/Fort Worth International
  4. Orlando International
  5. Washington Dulles International
  6. Beijing Daxing International
  7. George Bush Intercontinental
  8. Shanghai Pudong International
  9. Cairo International
  10. Suvarnabhumi International

1) King Fahd International

King Fahd International Airport is the largest airport in the world located in Dammam, Saudi Arabia. Upon its opening in 1999, this airport had the largest land area in the world, spanning almost 780 square kilometers. Modern terminals, cargo facilities, and a Royal Terminal reserved for the Saudi royal family are just a few of the many amenities housed on its huge grounds.

King Fahd International Airport has significantly changed the face of air travel in the area with its goal for expansion and innovation.

Acting as a major center for both domestic and international aviation, it promotes worldwide connection. With two parallel runways and a state-of-the-art air traffic control system to guarantee seamless operations, the airport has a strong infrastructure.

King Fahd International Airport prioritizes the comfort of its passengers by providing modern facilities and services that aim to improve the traveler experience. Its importance as a major entry point for both business and leisure travelers is influenced by its advantageous position in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province.

2) Denver International

Denver International Airport (DEN) is a vital center for the United States and is a marvel of contemporary aviation. This airport has been in operation since 1995 and is the second-largest airport in the world in terms of land size, spanning approximately 135 square kilometers. Situated in Denver, Colorado, it has grown to be an important hub for passengers traveling to many parts of the country and the world.

Featuring six runways, Denver International Airport has consistently ranked among the busiest airports in the United States. Its efficient layout and advanced air traffic control systems contribute to the smooth flow of flights, handling millions of passengers annually.

The airport is known for its unique tent-shaped roof, which represents the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains. There are plenty of amenities for visitors to enjoy within, such as restaurants, stores, and art exhibits showcasing Colorado’s thriving arts and culture.

Denver International Airport promotes business and tourism, which is essential to the region’s economic growth. It has served as the center of many expansion initiatives to meet the rising demand for air travel.

Denver International Airport has embraced sustainability by putting in place eco-friendly projects like a sizable solar panel installation and green building techniques.

Also read: Coldest Countries in the World

3) Dallas/Fort Worth International

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is a bustling aviation center in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, Texas. Since its founding in 1974, DFW Airport has expanded to become one of the world’s busiest and largest airports. With a land area of more than 69.6 square kilometers, it is the third-largest airport in the world.

With five terminals and seven runways, DFW has an extensive infrastructure that is all intended to promote effective air travel. The airport is a vital link that connects travelers to locations across the globe, acting as a key hub for both domestic and international flights.

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport is dedicated to providing its passengers with a comprehensive range of facilities. Visitors can make use of a wide variety of retail opportunities, dining establishments, and services that meet their needs for both business and pleasure. The airport’s reputation as a top travel hub is a result of its ongoing efforts to improve the traveler experience.

With a commitment to passenger satisfaction, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport offers a wide array of facilities. Travelers can enjoy a diverse range of dining options, shopping experiences, and services that cater to both leisure and business needs. The airport’s continuous efforts to enhance the passenger experience contribute to its reputation as a premier travel gateway.

DFW is a key economic driver for the area because of its advantageous location in the country’s center.

4) Orlando International

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is a bustling and active aviation center in Orlando, Florida. This airport has become a major participant in the world’s air transportation network since it opened for business in 1981. At more than 53.8 square kilometers, Orlando International Airport is one of the biggest airports in the world in terms of land area.

With four runways and a well-designed arrangement, the airport effectively oversees a significant number of both local and international flights, serving as a vital link for travelers to reach their intended destinations. As one of the busiest airports in the country, Orlando International Airport serves millions of travelers each year with a variety of travel needs.

The airport offers a wide range of facilities and services and is well-known for its passenger-centric philosophy.

Orlando International Airport’s expansion has been greatly aided by its advantageous location in the center of Florida, a popular tourist destination. Orlando International Airport’s dedication to offering first-rate amenities and its critical role in bolstering business and tourism endeavors in the area establish it as a major hub for passengers from across the globe.

5) Washington Dulles International

Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is essential in facilitating traveler connections to both domestic and foreign locations by serving as a major gateway to the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Dulles Airport was founded in 1962 and covers an area of 48.6 square kilometers. It is notable for its unique main terminal design and practical layout.

One of the busiest airports on the US East Coast, Washington Dulles International Airport can handle a lot of aircraft thanks to its four runways and numerous concourses. Its significance as a major center for both domestic and international flights is influenced by its advantageous location.

Dulles Airport prioritizes the passenger experience, which is evident in its futuristic services and facilities. To meet the various needs of travelers, the airport offers a variety of services, including lounges, business centers, and places to eat and shop. The AeroTrain system improves communication within the airport and offers quick and easy access between entrances.

The historical significance and constant innovation commitment of Washington Dulles International Airport are demonstrated by its continuous growth and development.

Washington Dulles International Airport is a major participant in the worldwide air travel landscape because of its reputation for excellence in operations and service, as well as its role in promoting economic activity in the Washington, DC region.

Also read: Most Powerful Men in the World

6) Beijing Daxing International

China’s Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) is a wonder of futuristic aviation technology and infrastructure. This airport opened in September 2019 and became evidence of the nation’s dedication to developing aviation. Covering a vast 46.6 square kilometers, it is among the world’s largest airports and is well situated near Beijing’s Daxing District.

Beijing Daxing International Airport features a terminal building structured like a star, with a futuristic and inventive design that guarantees convenient and efficient passenger flow. With four runways and the capacity to handle a large number of both domestic and international aircraft, the airport plays a major role in China’s status as a major aviation center.

Modern amenities and passenger comfort are prioritized in the airport’s design. Its modern infrastructure and advantageous location confirm its status as a crucial link that connects travelers to several locations across the globe.

7) George Bush Intercontinental

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is a significant aviation center that serves the Houston metropolitan area located in Texas, USA. Since its founding in June 1969, the airport has developed into one of the busiest and most important in the country. With a land size of 44.5 square kilometers, it serves as an important air transport hub for both local and international flights.

Featuring five terminals and five runways, George Bush Intercontinental Airport efficiently handles a substantial volume of flights, making it a vital connection point for passengers traveling globally. Its strategic location in Houston, a major economic and cultural center, enhances its prominence in the air transportation network.

Continuous upgrades and extensions guarantee that the airport can meet the increasing volume of air traffic, which adds to Houston’s stature as a major center point for international travel. George Bush Intercontinental Airport’s prominence in the worldwide aviation sector is highlighted by its dedication to efficiency, the passenger experience, and its role in boosting the region’s economic vitality.

Also read: Most Powerful Passports in the World

8) Shanghai Pudong International

Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) is a busy gateway to one of the liveliest and most important cities in China’s economy. Since its founding in 1999, Pudong Airport has proliferated to become one of the busiest and largest airports in the world. Covering a remarkable space of more than 39.9 square kilometers, it is not only one of China’s biggest airports but also a major participant in global aviation.

Shanghai Pudong International Airport effectively supports both domestic and international flights with its many runways and two main terminals. Due to its advantageous location, it serves as a key hub for passengers going to and from Asia, Europe, and other continents.

Pudong Airport prioritizes its patrons’ comfort and convenience by providing many services and amenities. Travelers can take advantage of a variety of food establishments, retail outlets, lounges, and other facilities that improve their whole trip.

Its significance in facilitating the global movement of people and products is highlighted by its function as a vital link in China’s air transportation network and by its status as a significant global hub. Shanghai Pudong International Airport’s dedication to efficiency, innovation, and providing exceptional customer service is indicative of its crucial role in establishing Shanghai’s reputation as a major global hub for both business and culture.

9) Cairo International

Cairo International Airport (CAI) is Egypt’s main international gateway which is essential to the nation’s international connections. The airport was first opened in 1945 and has since expanded to become one of the most important aviation hubs in the Middle East and Africa. Cairo International Airport is ideally situated near Heliopolis, northeast of Cairo, and spans an area of 36.3 square kilometers.

Cairo International Airport effectively handles a wide variety of domestic and international flights thanks to its four terminals and three runways. Its strategic location makes it even more valuable as a hub for travelers hopping between the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.

Cairo International Airport prioritizes the needs of its patrons by offering a variety of facilities and services. Comfortable lounges, retail stores, restaurants, and other amenities that serve both business and leisure purposes are available to travelers.

Its prominence as a crucial transportation hub in the area is cemented by its historical significance as well as its support for trade and tourism. Cairo International Airport’s dedication to effectiveness, connectivity, and passenger services highlights how crucial it is for enabling both domestic and international travel, strengthening Egypt’s standing in the world’s aviation industry.

Also read: Largest Lakes in the World

10) Suvarnabhumi International

The primary international entry point into Thailand is Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), which also functions as a significant air traffic hub in Southeast Asia. Suvarnabhumi Airport was opened in 2006 and is roughly 25 kilometers east of Bangkok’s city center. With a vast surface area of 32.4 square kilometers, it is among the biggest international airports globally.

Suvarnabhumi Airport has two parallel runways, and two terminal complexes, and can accommodate a lot of domestic and international flights. Its importance as a major hub for connecting passengers to many places across the globe is aided by its advantageous position in Bangkok, a popular tourist destination.

Suvarnabhumi Airport offers a variety of services and facilities with a focus on the comfort and convenience of its patrons. Passengers have access to a wide range of retail stores, dining options, lounges, and other amenities that are intended to improve their entire airport experience.

Its infrastructure is continually being developed and expanded to meet the changing needs of air travel. The importance of Suvarnabhumi Airport in the Southeast Asian and global aviation scene is highlighted by its function as a gateway to Thailand, its modern benefits, and its contribution to the nation’s tourism and economic operations.

Conclusion

Countries across the globe are building massive airports to facilitate surging demand for travel and tourism. These airports connect nations and continents, welcoming millions of travelers every day with their state-of-the-art facilities. This comprehensive guide has listed the top 10 largest airports in the world. Traveling through these airports is an experience beyond the norm, exhibiting the opulence and efficiency that characterize modern air travel.

FAQs

Which Is the Smallest Airport in the World?

Juancho E. Irausquin Airport in Saba, Caribbean Netherlands is the smallest airport in the world. It is only 1,312 feet long.

How Many Airports Are in the World?

There are over 41,000 airports in the world.

Is Doha Airport Bigger Than Dubai International Airport?

No, Dubai Airport is bigger than Doha Airport. Doha International Airport covers an area of 2,200 hectares while Dubai International Airport covers an area of 2,900 hectares.

Which Country Has the Most Airports?

The United States of America is home to the most airports in the world with 13,513 airports.

What Is the No. 1 Busiest Airport in the World?

The Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is the busiest in the world with approximately 93.7 million passengers traveling to different regions.

Top 10 Largest Airports in the World (2024)

FAQs

What is the top 10 largest airport in the world? ›

Ranking the largest airports in the world
  1. King Fahd International (DMM) - 300 square miles. ...
  2. Denver International Airport (DEN) - 53 square miles. ...
  3. Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) - 39 square miles. ...
  4. Istanbul Airport (IST) - 30 square miles. ...
  5. Dallas/Fort Wort International Airport (DFW) - 27 square miles.
Mar 20, 2024

Which are the top 5 busiest airports in the world? ›

What are the 10 busiest airports in the world?
  1. Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (104.65 million) ...
  2. Dubai International Airport (87 million) ...
  3. Dallas–Fort Worth International Airport (81.75 million) ...
  4. London's Heathrow Airport (79.2 million) ...
  5. Tokyo Haneda International Airport (78.7 million)
Apr 15, 2024

What is the #1 airport in the US? ›

Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport

What is the top 10 busiest airport in the US? ›

The top 10 busiest airports in the US are:
  1. Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) ...
  2. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) ...
  3. Denver International Airport (DEN) ...
  4. O'Hare International Airport (ORD) ...
  5. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) ...
  6. Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)

Which airport has the most flights per day in the world? ›

Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL/KATL), located in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, is currently the world's busiest airport. It serves millions of passengers annually and has earned its reputation as a major gateway to the United States and the Southeast.

Which US city has 6 airports? ›

New York has six total airports as well, but not all serve international flights: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Is JFK or Atlanta airport bigger? ›

The largest airport in this ranking is the Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport in the United States. With 775,818 starts and landings in 2023, it belongs without doubt on the list of the biggest airports worldwide. 37 airlines are starting here and fly to numerous travel destinations.

What is the 5 star airport in the US? ›

Hobby Airport is the only North American airport with a 5-star Skytrax rating with George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) keeping its 4-star Skytrax rating for a seventh straight year. The announcement came during the 2024 Skytrax World Airport Awards in Frankfurt, Germany on Wednesday, April 17.

Which is the world's busiest airport? ›

Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) is not only the busiest in the world by almost 10 million passengers per year, but it has also held the top spot in this list every year except one since 1998.

What is the smallest airport in the US? ›

And the smallest airport? The winner of that category is in Glendive, Montana, at Dawson Community Airport.

What is the only US airport that flies directly to all 6 major continents? ›

Chicago will soon be the only city in the U.S. to offer nonstop flights to six continents (all but Antarctica) when Air New Zealand begins service from O'Hare to Auckland on November 30.

Which is the 1 airport in the world? ›

Hamad International Airport (HIA) in Qatar was just named the best airport in the world in the 2024 Skytrax awards, knocking 12-time winner Singapore Changi Airport down to second place.

Is Atlanta the biggest airport? ›

Largest airports in the US

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is the largest airport in the US. It offers 220 destinations and serves around 55.4 million passengers every year. Another big airport, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), serves fewer passengers annually (around 35.7 million).

Why is Atlanta the busiest airport in the world? ›

Delta's hub in Atlanta drives the large volumes of passengers connecting through the airport, increasing flight options for local travelers and attracting companies and residents to Atlanta who need easy access to fly around the country and the world. That, in turn, increases demand for flights from other airlines.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Kareem Mueller DO

Last Updated:

Views: 6526

Rating: 4.6 / 5 (46 voted)

Reviews: 93% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Kareem Mueller DO

Birthday: 1997-01-04

Address: Apt. 156 12935 Runolfsdottir Mission, Greenfort, MN 74384-6749

Phone: +16704982844747

Job: Corporate Administration Planner

Hobby: Mountain biking, Jewelry making, Stone skipping, Lacemaking, Knife making, Scrapbooking, Letterboxing

Introduction: My name is Kareem Mueller DO, I am a vivacious, super, thoughtful, excited, handsome, beautiful, combative person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.