The global aviation industry is soaring back after years of pandemic-related disruptions, and with it, some airports are hitting record-breaking numbers of travelers. The world’s busiest airports are not only hubs of constant motion but also reflections of regional economic growth, airline dominance, and shifting travel patterns.
Here’s the definitive list of the top 10 busiest airports in the world for 2024, based on total passenger traffic — and yes, you will be surprised by who’s claimed the number one spot.
10. Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) – France
Passenger traffic: ~72 million
Why it’s busy: As France’s primary international gateway, CDG connects Europe to Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. With Air France headquartered here and a growing number of international flights, it’s a vital node in the SkyTeam alliance. Renovations in recent years have improved efficiency and capacity.
Highlight: Direct TGV train links to other European cities make CDG a dual hub for air and rail travelers.
9. London Heathrow Airport (LHR) – United Kingdom
Passenger traffic: ~75 million
Why it’s busy: Despite facing Brexit-related logistical changes, Heathrow remains the busiest airport in the UK. As a central hub for British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, Heathrow is crucial for transatlantic and long-haul flights.
Highlight: Terminal 5 is frequently voted among the best terminals in the world.
8. Dubai International Airport (DXB) – United Arab Emirates
Passenger traffic: ~77 million
Why it’s busy: Dubai is a global transit point, especially for travelers between Europe, Asia, and Africa. Emirates’ extensive long-haul network and luxury services attract millions through this desert megahub.
Highlight: DXB has held the top spot for international passenger traffic for years.
7. Istanbul Airport (IST) – Turkey
Passenger traffic: ~78 million
Why it’s busy: Opened in 2019, Istanbul Airport is already one of the largest and most advanced airports globally. Turkish Airlines, with routes to over 120 countries, has made it a key transfer point between Europe and Asia.
Highlight: IST is designed to handle up to 200 million passengers a year once fully expanded.
6. Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) – Japan
Passenger traffic: ~80 million
Why it’s busy: HND handles the bulk of domestic traffic in Japan but also serves a growing number of international flights. Its efficiency, cleanliness, and proximity to central Tokyo make it a favorite among travelers.
Highlight: Frequently ranked as the world’s cleanest and most punctual airport.
5. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – United States
Passenger traffic: ~84 million
Why it’s busy: LAX is a key Pacific gateway, handling heavy traffic to Asia and Latin America. It’s also the second busiest U.S. airport for international flights. Ongoing modernization projects are helping it keep pace with demand.
Highlight: The new Tom Bradley International Terminal is one of the most advanced in the U.S.
4. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) – United States
Passenger traffic: ~88 million
Why it’s busy: Located in the Midwest, O’Hare is a critical domestic hub with strong international links. It serves as a major base for both United and American Airlines.
Highlight: ORD often ranks first in the world for total aircraft movements (takeoffs and landings).
3. London Gatwick Airport (LGW) – United Kingdom
Passenger traffic: ~89 million
Why it’s busy: Gatwick has exploded in popularity thanks to low-cost carriers and European routes. It now serves more destinations than Heathrow in some categories.
Highlight: The South Terminal is home to easyJet’s largest base.
2. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) – United States
Passenger traffic: ~94 million
Why it’s busy: ATL has long been the world’s busiest airport by passenger numbers. Located within a 2-hour flight of 80% of the U.S. population, it is Delta’s largest hub and handles enormous volumes of domestic flights.
Highlight: ATL boasts the world’s most efficient connection time for domestic travel.
1. Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) – China
Passenger traffic: ~96 million
Why it’s #1: In a surprise to many, Guangzhou Baiyun has surged to the top spot, reflecting China’s booming domestic travel and regional connectivity. As international routes resumed post-pandemic, traffic exploded. The airport has modern terminals, high-speed rail integration, and serves as a major base for China Southern Airlines.
Highlight: Guangzhou is now the central hub for the southern China aviation network and is investing in a third terminal to further expand capacity.
The rankings for 2024 show how global travel patterns continue to evolve. While U.S. airports still dominate in sheer domestic volume, airports in Asia — particularly in China and the Middle East — are rising fast. As global travel demand rebounds, don’t be surprised if more unexpected names claim the top spots in coming years.