Top 10 Busiest Airports Worldwide 2024
Top 10 Busiest Airports Worldwide 2024
The Travel Sentry system is now implemented in 75 countries in more than 750 airports worldwide, enhancing global security and convenience for travelers.
The skies are busier than ever, with airports across the world witnessing record-breaking passenger numbers. Here are the Top 10 Busiest Airports in the World based on OAG's Global Airline Schedules Data, alongside key takeaways.
Key Takeaways for 2024, from 2024 IATA reports:
Global Growth: Air travel saw a significant rebound with a 10.4% increase in Revenue Passenger-Kilometers (RPK) in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 3.8%.
Asia-Pacific Leads: Asia-Pacific airlines led global growth with a 16.9% increase in RPK, highlighting strong demand across the region.
Rising Load Factors: The Passenger Load Factor (PLF) reached a new record high of 83.5%, indicating fuller flights globally.
U.S. and Middle Eastern Hubs Thrive: Airports in the U.S. continue to dominate, while Middle Eastern hubs like Dubai are thriving due to strong global connectivity.
1. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) – USA
62.7 million seats
ATL holds its spot as the busiest airport in the world. Its strong domestic network and role as a major hub for Delta Airlines help maintain its top position.
Implemented with Travel Sentry system: Yes
2. Dubai International Airport (DXB) – UAE
60.2 million seats
Dubai continues to thrive, thanks to its strategic location connecting Europe, Asia and Africa. It's a major stopover hub for international travelers.
Implemented with Travel Sentry system: Yes
3. Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) – Japan
55.2 million seats
Haneda serves both domestic and international flights. Its efficiency and proximity to Tokyo's city center make it a popular airport in Asia.
Implemented with Travel Sentry system: Yes
4. London Heathrow Airport (LHR) – UK
51.6 million seats
Heathrow remains Europe’s busiest airport. It’s a gateway for transatlantic flights and global business travel.
Implemented with Travel Sentry system: Yes
5. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) – USA
7% growth compared to 2023
DFW has seen impressive growth, handling a large volume of domestic flights and increasing its international connections.
Implemented with Travel Sentry system: Yes
6. Denver International Airport (DEN) – USA
24% increase compared to 2019
DEN continues its strong growth. Its central U.S. location supports high domestic traffic.
Implemented with Travel Sentry system: Yes
7. Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) – China
Rapid recovery post-pandemic
Reflecting China’s rapid aviation recovery, CAN is critical in domestic and international travel within Asia.
Implemented with Travel Sentry system: Yes
8. Istanbul Airport (IST) – Turkey
38.6 million seats (20% growth since 2019)
Istanbul Airport connects Europe and Asia. Its modern infrastructure supports its rapid growth.
Implemented with Travel Sentry system: Yes
9. Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) – China
29% growth from 2023
PVG climbed from 15th to 9th place. It’s a major gateway for international travel to and from China.
Implemented with Travel Sentry system: No
10. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) – USA
Maintaining strong traffic levels
ORD remains a key hub for both domestic and international flights, maintaining strong traffic levels across North America and beyond.
Implemented with Travel Sentry system: Yes
Busiest International and Domestic Flight Routes (2024)
Top International Routes:
- Hong Kong (HKG) – Taipei (TPE): 6.8 million seats – The busiest international route with a 48% increase compared to 2023.
- Cairo (CAI) – Jeddah (JED): 5.5 million seats – A key connection between Africa and the Middle East with strong growth.
- Seoul Incheon (ICN) – Tokyo Narita (NRT): 5.4 million seats – Reflects robust demand between South Korea and Japan.
Top Domestic Routes:
Jeju (CJU) – Seoul (GMP), South Korea: 14.2 million seats – The world’s busiest domestic route, highlighting strong regional travel demand.
Chitose (CTS) – Tokyo Haneda (HND), Japan: 11.9 million seats – A key domestic route in Japan with consistent growth.
Hanoi (HAN) – Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), Vietnam: 10.6 million seats – Vietnam’s busiest domestic route reflecting booming demand.