Top 10 busiest airports in the world; Delhi’s IGI in the list

The 10 busiest airport worldwide: Tokyo Haneda Airport has made the most significant leap in the top 10 rankings, moving from 16th place to the 5th spot in 2023-24.

With the recent resurgence of international air travel, explore the top 10 busiest airports in the world, as per ACI.(Source: Wikimedia Commons/Bharatahs)

With the recent resurgence of international air travel, explore the top 10 busiest airports in the world, as per ACI. (Source: Freepik)

10 busiest airports in the world: As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, airports have emerged as key hubs for global connectivity and economic growth. With the aviation industry bouncing back from recent setbacks, the projected global passenger count for 2023 is around 8.5 billion, marking an impressive 93.8% rebound from pre-pandemic figures, as reported by the Airports Council International (ACI) in its latest report.

So, with the recent resurgence of international air travel, ACI lately highlighted the top 10 busiest airports worldwide for total passengers. The influx of passengers at international airports, which is now closer to domestic traffic levels, has played a pivotal role in strengthening the recovery of these hubs.

In August 2024, Dubai International Airport witnessed a record 44.9 million travellers passing through its terminals in the first half of the year. This has put the world’s busiest airport for international travel back on track to surpass its previous record as aviation activity picks up after the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, according to the Airports Council International (ACI), it is interesting to note that Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), in Atlanta, USA, is the busiest, as per the data collected in 2023-204.

Notably, five airports in the top 10 list are located in the United States. Additionally, Tokyo Haneda Airport has shown remarkable progress, moving from 16th place to the 5th spot in 2023-24. Furthermore, Istanbul and New Delhi airports have also made impressive advancements, securing their positions among the top ranks.

The top 10 busiest airports in the world, ranked by ACI, as per the data from 2023-24:

Top 10 Busiest Airports Worldwide (Source: Airports Council International World)

*Please note: Based on data from 2023-24 (released April 2024).*

1. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Atlanta, USA:

For several years running, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) has reigned supreme as the world’s busiest passenger hub. This massive airport complex owes its bustling status to its central U.S. location, making it a convenient connecting point for domestic flights. Additionally, Atlanta boasts a large network of international connections, solidifying its role as a major gateway for global travellers.

Story continues below this ad

2. Dubai International Airport (DXB), Dubai, UAE:

Dubai International Airport’s (DXB) impressive climb to the second spot, reflects the booming aviation sector in the Middle East. As Dubai is transforming itself into a global commercial and tourism centre, DXB stands as a key link for travellers connecting to destinations worldwide.

3. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Dallas-Fort Worth, USA:

Strategically situated for connecting flights across North America, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) remains a popular hub for travellers in the United States for domestic and international travellers seeking convenient layovers.

Also Read | From Doha Hamad to Singapore Changi, here are top 10 airports in world in 2024

4. Heathrow Airport (LHR), London, UK:

Heathrow Airport (LHR) continues to dominate global air traffic as a vital gateway to Europe, remaining a central connection point for travellers worldwide and frequent flyers.

5. Tokyo Haneda International Airport (HND), Tokyo, Japan:

The significant rise in passenger numbers at Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) reflects Japan’s economic strength and its thriving tourist industry; It is serving as a major entry point for international travellers visiting the “Land of the Rising Sun.”

Story continues below this ad

6. Denver International Airport (DEN), Denver, USA:

Renowned as the “Mile High City,” Denver International Airport (DEN) is a major hub connecting the western United States to other regions. Its central location makes it a convenient transfer point for domestic flights, and its international connections continue to grow.

7. Istanbul Airport (IST), Istanbul, Turkey:

A relative newcomer on the scene, Istanbul Airport (IST) has quickly climbed the ranks to become a major player. The country’s strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia makes IST a crucial transit point for travellers worldwide.

8. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Los Angeles, USA:

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is a gateway to the West Coast of the United States and a popular starting point for exploring California and beyond. LAX also boasts a significant network of international connections, solidifying its status as a major global hub.

9. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Chicago, USA:

A major transportation hub in the Midwest, Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) serves as a key connecting point for domestic flights within the United States, in addition to, offering a network of international destinations, making it a convenient gateway for global travellers.

Story continues below this ad

10. Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), Delhi, India:

Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) is the busiest airport in India and a vital connection point for travellers throughout South Asia. DEL’s growing passenger numbers reflect India’s expanding economy and increasing role in the global travel market.

Also Read | Top 10 countries for travel and tourism in 2024: Where does India rank?

Cherry Gupta

Cherry Gupta is an Assistant Manager – Content at The Indian Express. She leads the Top 10 section, curating list-based features on key national and international developments, and manages daily news content. She also produces SEO-driven articles and collaborates with the Lifestyle team to conduct interviews with notable artists and write workplace culture features. ... Read More