International travel has nearly returned to pre-pandemic levels in 2024, marking a strong recovery for the global aviation industry. The Airports Council International (ACI) has published its most recent rankings of the busiest airports in the world based on total passenger traffic, which includes transit, enplaned, and deplaned travelers.

The 2024 report offers key insights into global travel trends, from consistent top performers to fast risers. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the top 10 airports leading the world in passenger traffic this year.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport will retain its crown as the world’s busiest airport in 2024. With over 108 million passengers, ATL continues to dominate global air travel thanks to its massive domestic hub operations and strong Delta Air Lines presence.

Dubai International Airport holds its second place from 2023 and has seen a solid passenger increase. As the world’s busiest international airport, DXB benefits from its strategic location and Emirates’ long-haul network.

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport climbed to third place in 2024, marking a major jump from 10th in 2019. Its strong domestic and growing international services have made it a central hub in the US.

Tokyo’s Haneda Airport has bounced back to fourth place as Japan fully reopens to global tourism. It remains one of Asia’s most efficient and busiest airports for both domestic and international flights.

London Heathrow ranks fifth in 2024, moving down one spot from last year. Despite this, the airport continues to grow steadily as a major European hub with strong transatlantic traffic and premium services.

Denver International Airport maintains its sixth position, showing strong growth due to its central location in the United States. It’s a key hub for domestic travel and a gateway to the Rocky Mountains.

Istanbul Airport has shown explosive growth, rising from 28th in 2019 to 7th in 2024. This dramatic increase is a testament to its role as a bridge between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

Chicago O’Hare International Airport moves up slightly to eighth place. While it has experienced modest growth, it still hasn’t reached pre-pandemic levels.

India’s Indira Gandhi International Airport has cracked the global top 10, rising dramatically from 17th in 2019. This marks a historic moment for India’s aviation growth.

Shanghai Pudong International Airport returns to the top 10, jumping from 21st place last year. China’s reopening and growing international routes have driven this sharp rebound.

Fianl Thoughts

The 2024 rankings of the world’s busiest airports demonstrate the ever-changing dynamics of international air travel. While traditional powerhouses such as Atlanta and London remain important participants, the growth of hubs like Dubai, Istanbul, and New Delhi shows changing patterns of international connectivity.

These airports are not just transit points; they are economic engines and cultural gateways, reflecting the increasing interconnectedness of our world. Understanding these trends is crucial for travelers and the broader travel industry alike.