Following the Covid-19 pandemic, the global aviation sector has fully recovered. In 2024, the number of passengers surpassed pre-pandemic levels, reaching 9.5 billion. Here are the world’s top 10 busiest airports.

The long-awaited recovery in global air traffic occurred in 2024 following the Covid-19 outbreak. According to data published by the Airports Council International (ACI) World, the number of passengers worldwide reached 9.5 billion last year. This figure represents a 3.8% increase over pre-pandemic levels in 2019 and a 9% increase compared to 2023. THE TOP REMAINS UNCHANGED CNN reported that in 2024, the world’s busiest airport with 108 million passengers was Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) in the USA. Dubai International Airport (DBX) followed in second place with 92.3 million passengers. The largest leap in the list was made by Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG) from China, climbing from 21st place in 2023 to 10th place with a massive 41% increase.

ISTANBUL AIRPORT ON THE RISE Istanbul Airport (IST) maintained its strong growth by ranking 7th on the list with 80.1 million passengers. India’s New Delhi Airport (DEL) rose to 9th place. ACI World attributed the growth at these two airports to “airline expansions, infrastructure investments, and increased connections.” The top 10 list also included U.S.-based airports such as Dallas Fort Worth, Denver, and Chicago O’Hare.

Airports Included in the Top 10 (2024)

1- Atlanta (ATL) – 108.1 million (3.3% increase)
2- Dubai (DBX) – 92.3 million (6.1% increase)
3- Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) – 87.8 million (7.4% increase)
4- Tokyo Haneda (HND) – 85.9 million (9.1% increase)
5- London Heathrow (LHR) – 83.9 million (5.9% increase)
6- Denver (DEN) – 82.4 million (5.8% increase)
7- Istanbul (IST) – 80.1 million (5.3% increase)
8- Chicago O’Hare (ORD) – 80 million (8.3% increase)
9- New Delhi (DEL) – 77.8 million (7.8% increase)
10- Shanghai Pudong (PVG) – 76.8 million (41% increase)