Top 15 Busiest Airports In The US: A Comprehensive Guide

busiest airport in US

Posted on 2nd Aug, 2023 by Heena Ganotra , Updated 10 months ago

Do you know which is the busiest airport in the US? Or, which is the biggest? Well, there are about 19,919 airports in the United States. This figure includes public, private airports, and regional airports. While some airports are quite small, others are truly impressive in size.

According to the FAA, the United States is home to some of the busiest airports in the world. Interestingly, the top three busiest airports in the world are all in the US, making the United States one of the largest aviation networks in the world. Here, we’ll look at the 15 busiest airports in the USA and their passenger-traffic.

List Of Busiest Airports In The US

A few factors go into determining how busy an airport is, one of which is the amount of passenger traffic it sees. Passenger traffic is defined as the number of people traveling through an airport within a given time period – often a year. This can include both international and domestic passengers. As a result, the airports that generate the most traffic are typically the busiest.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

With over 100 million passengers passing through its terminals each year, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the busiest airport in the United States. It serves over 42 million passengers in 2020. In 2021, the airport handled a record 75 million passengers, making it the busiest airport in the world. Interestingly, it has been the busiest airport in the world in terms of passenger traffic since 1998 and is a major employer in the state of Georgia. Also, it has been on the list of the top 5 largest airports in the world since 2000.

What’s more, the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport was named after two former mayors of the city, William B. Hartsfield and Maynard Jackson. The airport is located in Atlanta, Georgia, and is the primary hub for Delta Air Lines. Located in the southeastern city of Atlanta, Georgia, the airport is a major hub for domestic and international travel. Close to 1,000 flights operate from the airport to 225 domestic and international destinations.

Popular Flights From Atlanta To India

If you are planning to take a flight from Atlanta Airport, here are the most preferred routes for Atlanta to India flights

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport

According to the Airports Council International report, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport was ranked as the second-busiest airport in the world, with 62.5 million passengers in 2021. Also, it is the 3rd busiest airport in the world by aircraft movement. As the second busiest airport in the USA, DFW Airport has continued the growing popularity of travel to and from the United States, which has resulted in increased passenger traffic and higher rankings. 

DFW International Airport is the busiest airport in Texas. It offers service to 260 destinations worldwide from 28 scheduled airlines and handles over 2,000 flights per day. The airport is a major hub for American Airlines, headquartered near the airport. Dallas Fort Worth International Airport is also a major hub for international travel, with nonstop service to destinations all over the world.

Popular Flights From Dallas To India

If you’re preparing to catch a flight departing from Dallas Airport, here are the most favored flights from Dallas to India.

Denver International Airport

Handling over 50 million passengers each year. Denver International Airport is the third busiest airport in the US and is a critical hub for air travel. In fact, in 2021, Denver International Airport (DEN) was ranked as the third busiest airport in the world by passenger traffic. In fact, it has consistently been ranked among the top 20 busiest airports in the world every year since 2000. Importantly, it holds the title of the biggest airport in the United States and the second-largest airport in the world.

DEN was established in 1995 and employed over 35,000 people, making it the largest employer in Colorado. The airport is located on the western edge of the Great Plains, with the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains visible in the distance. It is the fourth airport in the United States to reach 200 destinations and currently offers nonstop service to 215 destinations across 23 different airlines.

Popular Flights From Denver To India

If your travel plans involve departing from Denver Airport, consider these top-recommended routes for Denver to India flights.

O’Hare International Airport

O’Hare International Airport was titled the busiest airport in the world from 1963 to 1998. In addition, it has consistently been on the list of the top 20 busiest airports in the world since 2000. It handled 54 million passengers in 2021, making it the fourth busiest airport in the world. Apart from this, the airport handled a total of 919,704 aircraft in 2019, with an average of 2,520 flights per day. This is due to the large number of regional flights that the airport services, more than any other airport in the world.

Located on the Northwest Side of Chicago, Illinois, Chicago O’Hare International Airport is a major hub for United Airlines and American Airlines. It is a focus city for Spirit Airlines. Being one of the busiest airports in the USA, it offers nonstop flights to 228 destinations in the USA, Asia, Europe, Africa, Oceania, North Atlantic, and the Middle East.

Popular Flights From Chicago To India

For those intending to fly out of Chicago Airport, these are the most popular flight routes for Chicago to India flights.

Los Angeles International Airport

With nearly 88.1 million passengers in 2019, Los Angeles International Airport was the world’s third busiest airport. Currently, it ranks the fifth busiest international airport in the world, according to data from the Airports Council International. The airport has the highest number of travelers beginning or ending their journey in LAX, making it the busiest origin and destination airport in the world. The airport is also a major hub for cargo traffic and ranks among the top five airports in the USA for cargo traffic.

LAX is the busiest airport in the US and a major hub or focuses city for more passenger airlines. It is the busiest airport in Los Angeles and a hub of Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Polar Air Cargo, and United Airlines. LAX is a major international airport for those traveling to the United States from across East and Southeast Asia, Australasia, Mexico, and Central America.

Popular Flights From Los Angeles To India

If you’re looking to take a flight from Los Angeles Airport, here are the top Los Angeles to India flight routes to consider.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport

As of 2019, Charlotte Douglas International Airport ranked as the 11th-busiest airport in the United States in terms of passenger traffic, having processed over 50.2 million passengers. Additionally, the airport was ranked fifth in terms of aircraft operations. CLT has seen significant growth in recent years, increasing domestic and international travelers. It is now ranked as the 6th busiest international airport in the world and the United States.

The Charlotte Douglas International Airport is a hub for American Airlines and offers a daily schedule of 677 flights to 138 destinations, including 36 international locations. It offers nonstop service to a majority of the airport’s destinations. Furthermore, the Charlotte Douglas International Airport is one of the many airports in the United States with a popular spot for aviation enthusiasts and plane spotters to view the planes take off and land.

Popular Flights From Charlotte To India

Planning to depart from Charlotte Airport? Check out these highly recommended Charlotte to India flights for you to consider.

Orlando International Airport

Orlando International Airport has seen a significant increase in the number of passengers it has handled in recent years, with over 40.3 million passengers in 2021. This puts the airport among the top 10 busiest airports in the world, as measured by the Airports Council International. In 2020, the airport was ranked 27th in the world in terms of passenger traffic; however, its position has now jumped to 7th, highlighting the increasing popularity of the airport among travelers.

The airport plays a major role in connecting the mid-Florida region to the rest of the world, with over 850 daily flights on 44 airlines. It also serves 135 domestic and international destinations, making it a key hub for travel. Being one of the busiest US airports, Orlando International Airport is a popular destination for leisure and business travelers. The airport is well-equipped to handle large amounts of traffic.

Popular Flights From Orlando To India

If you’re gearing up for a journey from Orlando Airport, these routes are often chosen by travelers for Orlando to India Flights.

Harry Reid International Airport

Harry Reid International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the United States, handling more than 43 million passengers annually. The airport is located just outside Las Vegas, Nevada, and is a hub for domestic and international travel. Previously known as McCarran International Airport, it is now the 8th busiest airport in the United States, with more than 40 million passengers annually. It is also ranked among the top 10 world’s busiest international airports, handling over 486,540 aircraft, according to the Airports Council International report.

Around 40 airlines operate out of Harry Reid International Airport, with over 950 flights departing daily to 125 different U.S. cities and numerous international destinations. The airport provides nonstop service to a vast array of destinations, making it a convenient gateway for travelers. The airport, built-in 1942, has undergone expansion and now employs various innovative technologies.

Popular Flights From Las Vegas To India

  • Las Vegas to Delhi Flights

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport

Located in Phoenix, Arizona, Sky Harbor International Airport sees millions of passengers and is ranked 9th busiest in the U.S. and 11th busiest in the world. In addition, Sky Harbor is also one of the largest commercial airports in the country. The airport serves as a hub for American Airlines and a base for Southwest Airlines.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport handles more than 120,000 passengers daily, and it offers 1,200 flights each day to domestic and international destinations. Interestingly, the airport has a total economic impact of more than $38 billion per year, making it a vital part of the local and regional economy.

Popular Flights From Phoenix To India

If a Phoneix to India flight is in your future, these routes are commonly opted for by passengers departing from Phoenix Airport.

Miami International Airport

Located in Miami-Dade County, Florida, Miami International Airport provides more than 1,000 daily flights to 167 domestic and international destinations. This airport is one of the busiest in the United States and the world, seeing a great deal of aircraft and cargo traffic. It is the busiest airport in Florida and is second only to Orlando in terms of passenger traffic. Moreover, the airport is the busiest international cargo airport in the united states, as well as the busiest gateway for international passengers in the U.S.

Miami International Airport is a premier gateway for long-haul international flights coming into South Florida and a hub for domestic travel within the Southeastern United States. Passengers and cargo flights departing from Miami can reach destinations throughout the domestic destinations in the USA, Africa, Europe, and Asia. Also, it is a major hub for travel between the United States, Latin America, and the Caribbean, making it a convenient location for those exploring the area.

Popular Flights From Miami To India

Embarking on a Miami to India flight from the Miami Airport? Here are the popular routes that are preferred by travelers.

Seattle–Tacoma International Airport

The Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is a busy airport that experiences a lot of passengers and air cargo traffic. It is ranked 11th in the United States for passenger activity, a hub of aviation activity, and an economic driver for the entire region. Situated just south of Seattle, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is one of the busiest airports in the Pacific Northwest. The airport’s central location makes it easy to get from downtown Seattle and allows for quick distribution to nearby centers.

SEA is home to 34 airlines serving domestic and international destinations, with flights to 91 nonstop domestic and 28 international destinations. The airport has flights to cities throughout North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, making it a convenient gateway to the Pacific Northwest. It is the primary hub for Alaska Airlines, headquartered nearby. Also, since 2011, Delta Air Lines has been expanding its operations at SEA, which has turned the airport into an important hub and international gateway for the airline.

Popular Flights From Seattle To India

If your travel itinerary involves departing from Seattle Airport for a flight from Seattle to India, these are the popular routes preferred by travelers.

George Bush Intercontinental Airport

George Bush Intercontinental Airport is ranked among the top 100 airports in the world. Apart from this, it also received the Best Food and Best Staff award in 2020. It is one of the busiest airports in America and is the busiest airport in Texas for international passenger traffic. It is Houston’s primary airport, serving over 40 million passengers each year. 

Located in Houston, Texas, it was known as Houston Intercontinental Airport and was renamed after George H. W. Bush in 1997. Today, IAH is the largest passenger hub for United Airlines and features a wide range of shops, restaurants, and amenities. As the second busiest airport in Texas overall, it offers scheduled flights to a large number of domestic and international destinations.

Popular Flights From Houston To India

Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport

The Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is an intercontinental gateway with over 700 daily flights to 135 domestic and international destinations. It is one of the busiest US airports. In 2019, the airport handled 36,747,622 passengers. However, in 2020, the number of passengers decreased significantly to only 16,484,132. Fortunately, the number of passengers increased in 2021, and the airport handled 28,076,808 passengers.

In addition, Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport has 115 aircraft based there, including 23 single-engine, 13 multi-engine, 74 jet, and one helicopter. There were a total of 277,267 aircraft operations in the past year. In fact, it is a major hub airport serving commercial traffic in south Florida, with Allegiant Air, JetBlue, and Spirit Airlines all basing operations here. Southwest Airlines also uses the air[ort as its primary airport in the region, although it also serves Miami and Palm Beach. 

Popular Flights From Fort Lauderdale To India

If you’re getting ready for your Fort Lauderdale to India flight, arriving at these Indian cities would help since they are mostly preferred.

  • Fort Lauderdale to Delhi Flights

Minneapolis/St Paul International Airport

Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, also known as Wold-Chamberlain Field, is one of the US busiest airports handling more than 25 million passengers annually. Moreover, MSP is not only the busiest airport in the Upper Midwest but also home to several operations for the United States Air Force and the Minnesota Air National Guard. This makes it a vital hub for commercial and military aviation in the United States.

MSP plays an important role for Delta Air Lines and Sun Country Airlines, which account for around 70% of the airport’s traffic. MSP is estimated to contribute $15.9 billion annually to the Twin Cities’ economy and supports 87,000 jobs – making it a vital part of the community.

Popular Flights From St. Paul To India

If you’re set to take off from Minneapolis Airport on a flight to India from Minneapolis, here are some routes that many travelers tend to favor.

  • Minneapolis to Delhi Flights

San Francisco International Airport

Situated in the San Francisco Bay Area, San Francisco International Airport is one of the largest airports in the area. It is one of the busiest US airports, welcoming millions of passengers each year. Also, it is the 2nd busiest airport in California and the 34th busiest in the world. With plenty of amenities and transportation options, SFO is a convenient place to travel through.

SFO is one of United Airlines’ five largest hubs, and it serves as the company’s primary Trans-Pacific gateway and as a hub for Alaska Airlines. With nonstop service to more than 125 destinations, SFO is a vital connection point between San Francisco, Silicon Valley, Northern California, and the rest of the world.

Popular Flights From San Francisco To India

Preparing for a San Francisco to India flight? Explore these popular routes chosen by many travelers.

Now that you know the busiest airports in the US, what makes them stand out from other airports? Is it their area, their, size, history, or location? Whatever the reason, they are fascinating and popular in the United States. If you ever book a flight from or arrive at one of these airports, be sure to check the airport! These are some of the most impressive and well-designed airports in the world and are definitely worth visiting.

Flights-to-India

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Atlanta Airport the busiest in the world?

Ans: Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport is the busiest in the world and the United States, handling 75.5 million passengers in 2021, according to Airports Council International data.

Q: Which airport is the busiest in the world?

Ans: Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the busiest airport in the world by passenger number and is one of the busiest for aircraft movements. It serves as the primary international airport for Atlanta and is a major hub for air travel.

Q: Which city has the most airports?

Ans: The state of Alaska has the highest number of airports of any state in the United States.

Q: What is the cleanest airport in the U.S.?

Ans: Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport is the best airport in the U.S., according to the Skytrax 2021 World Airport Awards, and the cleanest airport in the nation!

Q: What is the busiest airport in America in 2022?

Ans: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is the 1st busiest airport in the United States. It is known for its high level of operation and efficiency.

Q: What is the safest airport in the U.S.?

Ans: The Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport emerged as the safest airport in North America.

Q: What’s the most luxurious airport in the U.S.?

Ans: San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is one of the 2nd busiest airports in California. In 2008, it underwent a $383 million renovation that turned it into a luxury destination for shoppers, food, and art enthusiasts. The most notable change was to Terminal 2, which is now a bustling hub of activity. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, you’ll find plenty of options at SFO.

What’s more, if you’re looking for the most affordable USA to India flights from any of the airports for your next trip, MyIndiaFlight is the right place. We’re one of the best travel companies and can help you get great deals and discounted airfare. So what are you waiting for? Contact us and book your flight ticket with us today.

Heena

About Heena | View Posts

A writer by both passion and profession, Heena Ganotra is "half agony, half hope" but all heart. And oh, she has been a book lover from the start! Her love for books is what convinced her to make a career in the wonderful world of words. She loves what she does and is out-and-out a satisfied soul with a wish to spread happiness like herpes. Insight- Some say she is living the best life anyone could because she reads, writes, travels, and makes merry. They’re right because what else does one really need! :)

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