US Aviation Traffic Surges as Major Hubs Welcome Millions

The United States continues to dominate global aviation, with nearly 900 million passengers flying on commercial aircraft in 2024, significantly outpacing China, which recorded just under 750 million passengers. This surge in air travel highlights the importance of major hubs across the country, with Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) leading the way.

ATL reported over 105 million passengers in 2024, making it the world’s busiest airport for passenger traffic every year since 1998, except for the pandemic year of 2020. With approximately 800,000 flights, ATL serves as the primary hub for Delta Air Lines, facilitating connections to over 150 domestic and more than 70 international destinations. The airport’s expansive infrastructure, spanning 4,700 acres and featuring five parallel runways, supports its status as a critical aviation center.

Top Seven Airports in the United States

Following Atlanta, several other airports have exhibited significant growth and operational capacity in 2024.

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) ranks second, welcoming over 85 million passengers last year. DFW has the largest portfolio of destinations in North America, with 269 total, which includes 73 international locations. The airport is currently advancing an expansion project called “DFW Forward,” investing up to $12 billion to construct a new terminal and renovate existing facilities.

Third is Denver International Airport (DEN), with just over 80 million passengers in 2024. DEN, the largest airport by land area in the U.S., has experienced substantial growth over the past decade. It serves as a major hub for United Airlines and has become a leader in international traffic. The airport is also the largest employer in Colorado, contributing nearly $50 billion to the state’s economy.

Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) follows closely behind, also with over 80 million passengers. In 2024, O’Hare witnessed its busiest year on record. The airport is uniquely positioned as a dual hub for both United and American Airlines, with a vast selection of domestic and international routes. In July 2025, O’Hare experienced the highest passenger traffic month in its history.

Next is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), welcoming over 75 million passengers. As the busiest hub on the West Coast, LAX is undergoing extensive renovations in anticipation of the 2028 Olympics. Notably, nearly 90% of travelers use LAX as their first or last stop, indicating a strong focus on originating and terminating flights rather than connections.

At the sixth position, John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York also reported over 55 million passengers in 2024. JFK has become an essential hub for international travel, with nonstop service to six continents. The airport’s history dates back to 1948, and it has seen significant growth in passenger traffic, particularly during peak travel months.

Finally, Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) rounds out the list, also surpassing 55 million passengers in 2024. Known for its rapid growth, CLT serves as the second-largest hub for American Airlines and is currently undergoing a $4 billion capital improvement program to manage its expanding operations.

As the aviation landscape continues to evolve, these top hubs play a critical role in facilitating global connectivity and driving economic growth across the United States.