Airports are gateways to our global adventures. They connect cities and countries for business travelers and vacationers alike. Travelers worldwide find it easier than ever to explore the globe, resulting in its increasing popularity.
Imagine an airport. Chances are you’re picturing a place full of people racing to get to their gates or standing in winding TSA lines. Airports are definitely busy places.
But some airports take ‘busy’ to a whole other level. Let’s dive into the top 10 busiest airports in 2023, ranked by passenger traffic.
#1. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
Welcome to ATL, the world’s busiest airport in passenger traffic! It’s like a city within a city, always buzzing with energy and connecting people from all corners of the globe. With over 107 million passengers, it’s a place where stories from different countries intertwine, and adventures begin and end.
- Passenger Traffic: Over 107 million
- Interesting Fact: For over twenty years, ATL has ranked as the world’s busiest in passenger traffic for many years.
- Unique Amenities: The Plane Train: an automated people mover, medical clinic open 7 days a week (except for holidays).
#2. Dubai International Airport (DXB)
Imagine stepping into a world of luxury in DXB. The sophisticated decor matches the majesty of Dubai.
- Passenger Traffic: 92 million
- Interesting Fact: DXB boasts the world’s tallest air traffic control tower.
- Unique Amenities: 5-star hotel inside the airport, Sleep ‘n Fly Lounge: sleep pods and cabins.
#3. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
DFW sees a lot of passengers off on their journeys each year. Here, warm Texan spirit meets international hustle.
- Passenger Traffic: 75 million
- Interesting Fact: DFW covers more than 17,000 acres, making it the second-largest airport by land area in the United States.
- Unique Amenities: Yoga studio with free classes, Minute Suites: private suites for short stays
#4. Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND)
HND is like a reliable friend to international travelers. Here flights have an impressive track record for being on time. It’s a hub that links Japan to the world, making sure all travelers enjoy Japan’s famous efficiency.
- Passenger Traffic: 85 million
- Interesting Fact: Haneda has won awards for being the most on-time major airport in the world.
- Unique Amenities: Edo-Koji: a shopping street that replicates the Edo period, Planetarium Starry Café
#5. London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
LHR is where classic meets modern for nearly 84 million passengers. This place connects you to Europe’s past and present. It offers a blend of old and new experiences during your trip.
- Passenger Traffic: About 84 million
- Interesting Fact: There are two main runways. The northern one is 3,902 meters long, while the southern runway is 3,658 meters.
- Unique Amenities: Personal Shopper Service, art gallery showcasing British artists.
#6. Denver International Airport (DEN)
DEN offers over 82 million travelers a distinctive ambiance with its award-winning architecture and stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. With its iconic peaked roof and largest total land area of any U.S. airport, it is a remarkable experience for any traveler passing through.
- Passenger Traffic: Over 82 million
- Interesting Fact: The airport has a 2,050-foot by 11-foot underground tunnel system that runs beneath one of the runways and surrounding taxiways.
- Unique Amenities: Williams & Graham: a hidden speakeasy-style cocktail bar, Canine Airport Therapy Squad (CATS) to provide therapy services for travelers that include support dogs and one support cat.
#7. Istanbul Airport (IST)
IST welcomes you to the Arnavutköy district on the European side of Istanbul, Turkey. It’s a modern and well-designed airport with touches of Turkish culture, bustling with global travelers, luxury shops, and a sense of connectivity.
- Passenger Traffic: 80 million
- Interesting Fact: IST brings sustainability practices to its airport, with implementations of low-flow faucets and toilet tanks in restrooms, and a curation of low-water consuming plants, which expect to reduce the building’s water consumption by over 50 percent.
- Unique Amenities: Unifree Duty-Free: Shopping area of luxury brands such as Gucci, Hermes, and Chanel, Sleepod zones and spas.
#8. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
ORD is a busy and iconic airport in the United States. Known for its constant flow of travelers, O’Hare reflects the fast-paced energy and resilience of Chicago itself.
- Passenger Traffic: 80 million
- Interesting Fact: O’Hare has the most runways of any airport in the world, with a total of eight.
- Unique Amenities: Hilton Chicago O’Hare Airport Hotel: on-site hotel, artwork around the airport from 30 diverse international, national, and local artists.
#9. Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL)
DEL, located in New Delhi, is India’s busiest and most advanced aviation hub. The airport offers a seamless travel experience that perfectly reflects the country’s growing global presence and cultural richness.
- Passenger Traffic: 77 million
- Interesting Fact: DEL became India’s first and only airport to have four runways.
- Unique Amenities: DEL Vibes: live performances and interactive sessions, pet-friendly services such as food bowls, refreshments, and other care for travelers with pets.
#10. Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)
PVG welcomes you to Shanghai, China’s dazzling financial hub. It’s a blend of modernity and efficiency, acting as a welcoming doorway to the city’s vibrant life and rapid development.
- Passenger Traffic: Over 76 million
- Interesting Fact: PVG has two main passenger terminals, with a third terminal planned to cope with the increasing passenger numbers.
- Unique Amenities: The Maglev Train: the world’s fastest commercial train, traditional Chinese medicine stores
These airports not only serve as transportation hubs but also play a crucial role in the global economy, tourism, and business. Want to learn about the other busy airports that round out this list of the busiest airports in the world?
You can find a complete list of the world’s busiest airports.
Tips For Navigating the World’s Busiest Airports
Navigating these busy airports can be a challenge. But we’ve got some tips and tricks to help you get to your gate with as little stress as possible. Let’s dive in!
#1. Get There Early
The earlier you arrive the less rushed you’ll feel.
- Arrive Early: Ensure you’re at the airport at least 3 hours before international flights and 2 hours before domestic ones.
- Check-in Online: Utilize online check-in options to save time and avoid long queues.
#2. Pack Like a Pro
The more bags you take with you, the harder it will be to navigate these airports. Packing efficiently can make check-in a lot easier.
- Roll, Don’t Fold: Rolling clothes instead of folding can save space and prevent wrinkles.
- Travel-Size Toiletries: Stick to travel-size toiletries to breeze through security checks.
- Snack Smart: Pack small, healthy snacks to keep hunger at bay during waits.
#3. Security Check Smoothness
Make your security screening fly by with a little forethought.
- Dress Smart: Wear slip-on shoes and avoid belts or jewelry that may trigger security alarms.
- Organize Your Carry-On: Keep laptops and liquids in an easy-to-reach spot in your carry-on. That way you can quickly remove them during your security screening.
- Sign up for TSA Pre-check, Global Entry, or Clear: These programs can cut your security line wait times down to five minutes. Global Entry can help you get through Customs faster. Not every airport offers these, but if they do, save yourself a lot of time and stress and sign up!
#4. Lounge in Comfort
If you have some free time, find a place to relax.
- Lounge Access: Consider credit cards or loyalty programs that offer airport lounge access for a peaceful wait.
- Rest Zones: Look for designated rest zones to relax and recharge during layovers.
#5. Stay Connected
Technology is a big help when it comes to navigating airport chaos.
- Use the Free Wi-Fi: Take advantage of the free airport Wi-Fi for catching up on emails and the latest travel alerts.
- Power Up: Locate charging stations to keep your devices juiced up for the journey.
#6. Navigate with Ease
- Know Your Airport Maps: Familiarize yourself with airport maps available online or via airport apps. That way you’ll know just where to go.
- Focus on signage: Pay attention to clear, large signs directing you to gates, baggage claims, and more. This is especially important if you’re in a new airport or in a country where you don’t know the language.
#7. Local Transport Links
If your flight is delayed or canceled, you might need to stay overnight in a nearby hotel. It’s a good idea to know what your transportation options to and from the airport are, just in case.
- Research Transit options: Know the local transport options like buses, trains, or rental cars available at the airport.
- Airport Shuttles: Use airport shuttles for easy transport to and from hotels.
#8. Shop and Dine Wisely
Because these airports are the busiest in the world, chances are good that they’re great places to shop and eat.
- Duty-Free Deals: Explore duty-free shops for some great deals on products.
- Eat Smart: Choose restaurants or cafes that offer healthy and filling options.
#9. Entertain Yourself
Facing a flight delay or cancellation? Just think of it as more time to explore!
- Check out the airport attractions: Some airports feature beautiful art installations or unique attractions – take a stroll and explore!
- Browse the bookstores: Dive into a good book from an airport bookstore to pass the time.
#10. Be Kind and Patient
Being nice not only reduces your own stress but it helps put everyone you meet at ease.
- Stay Calm: Travel can be stressful, but maintaining calm ensures a pleasant experience for you and your fellow travelers.
- Kindness Counts: A smile or a kind word can go a long way, especially when interacting with busy airport staff.
Why You Need Travel Insurance
American travelers have a secret weapon: trip insurance. This type of travel insurance is essential if your trip involves flying out of one of these bustling airports. Typically, the busier the airport the greater the chance of a delayed or canceled flight. Trip insurance can cover most of your expenses for the following:
- Flight cancellations or delays
- Lost, stolen, or delayed baggage
- Emergency medical care while traveling
- Trip interruption
- Trip cancellation due to illness, injury, or other covered reasons
- Missed connections and rebooking fees
- Emergency evacuation
- And more…
In crowded, high-traffic airports where delays, lost luggage, and missed connections are more likely to happen, trip insurance covers expenses related to this type of disruption. Trip insurance protects your investment and gives you the coverage you need to get your trip back on track. Wanting more information about trip insurance? Compare our available trip insurance plans or contact our Customer Success Team for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is travel insurance necessary?
While not mandatory in most countries, it is highly recommended. Travel insurance can be a benefit in busy airports where delays, cancellations and baggage mishaps are more common. It acts as a safety net, helping you recover costs and receive assistance when things don’t go as planned.
Can travel insurance protect me from financial losses due to missed connections at crowded hubs?
Yes, if you miss your connection, travel insurance may cover your expenses depending on the policy. Common covered reasons include an airline-caused delay, severe weather conditions, or a strike, disaster or terrorist attack. However, it typically doesn’t cover oversleeping, running late, or other personal reasons that can cause you to miss your flight.
What should I look for in a travel insurance plan if I often connect through major international airports?
You should look into a trip insurance plan that covers the most common disruptions at busy hubs. There are often delays at these kinds of airports, so it is best to get a policy with trip delay and cancellation coverage. It is also important to read the policy carefully to see how long the delay has to be in order for coverage.
Can I get travel insurance at the airport?
While you might find last minute travel insurance, it is not ideal or recommended because of the potential lack of coverage. The options also may be limited or even more expensive. It is best to purchase travel insurance days before you leave to ensure better and stronger coverage. For specific add-ons, such as Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR), you may have to purchase it 15-21 days before your flight.
How much does trip insurance usually cost?
Trip insurance typically costs about 5–10% of your total prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses, but the price can vary based on factors like your trip cost, length, age, destination, and any optional add-ons. While it adds a small amount to your travel budget, trip insurance can help protect you from major losses if your plans change unexpectedly.
Can I extend my travel insurance if my trip gets longer?
Trip insurance coverage may be extended only if the entire trip is covered by the policy and your return is delayed due to unavoidable circumstances such as illness or natural disasters. This extension will terminate on the earlier of two dates: when you arrive at your originally scheduled return destination, or when the stated extension time frame in your policy lapses. Refer to your policy documents for specific terms and conditions.
