Traveling by air can be an exciting experience, but it can also be overwhelming. With airports around the world growing in size and number, it can be difficult to keep track of which ones are the busiest. The busiest airports in the world are bustling with travelers and offer unique experiences and amenities. From the massive Changi Airport in Singapore to the charming Incheon Airport in South Korea, each has its own flavor and atmosphere. Whether you’re stopping for a layover or visiting one of these airports for the first time, you’ll find plenty of activities to keep you occupied. From shopping to fine dining, there’s something for everyone. So take a deep breath and join us as we explore the busiest airports in the world and what to expect when you visit.
Busiest Airports in the World
1. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, USA
The world’s busiest airport for two years in a row, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport services 86 million passengers annually. This equates to about 236,000 people visiting the airport each day. As the Southeast’s major airport and a major hub for Delta Air Lines, Hartsfield-Jackson sees a wide variety of international flights as well as domestic carriers. If you’re visiting Hartsfield-Jackson for the first time, you’ll be amazed by the sheer size and number of shops, restaurants, and amenities. The award-winning International Terminal, which opened in May 2005, has received many accolades. Some of the most notable is the 2010 “Building of the Year” Award presented by the Southeast Construction and Engineering Council and “Best Airport in the World” selected by Airports Council International.
2. Beijing Capital International Airport, China
Located in the Chinese capital city of Beijing, Beijing Capital International Airport is the world’s second busiest airport and services a whopping 90 million passengers a year. The airport sees approximately 400,000 passengers per day and is a hub for Air China, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, and Hainan Airlines. Getting around the massive airport can be a challenge, but it’s compensated by excellent shops and dining options. If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll be happy to know that Beijing Capital Airport has a fun children’s playroom and a nearby puppet theater. If you’re traveling for business, you’ll appreciate the numerous conference centers and exhibition halls. If you’re visiting Beijing Capital International Airport for the first time, be sure to check out the airport’s massive, 14-story Great Wall mural.
3. Dubai International Airport, United Arab Emirates
With approximately 85 million passengers each year, Dubai International Airport is the world’s third busiest airport. The airport sees approximately 400,000 passengers per day, and it is the hub for the airline Emirates. If you have time to kill before your flight or you’re visiting Dubai International Airport for the first time, don’t miss the airport’s famous marble bathrooms. Another fun airport feature is Dubai Airport’s aquarium. You can enjoy this while you’re waiting for your flight. While many airports have lost their charm in the modern world of air travel, Dubai International Airport has managed to keep its character intact. The airport’s architecture and design are reminiscent of a bygone era and are sure to delight both kids and adults.
4. Los Angeles International Airport, USA
Los Angeles International Airport is the world’s fourth busiest airport and services approximately 84 million passengers every year. It is the hub for the major airlines Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, British Airways, Southwest Airlines, and Virgin America. If you’re visiting Los Angeles for the first time, you’ll want to take advantage of its famous Theme Building. Designed by world-famous architect and engineer William F. Durrell, the Theme Building broke ground in 1947 and opened in 1951. While it may no longer have the architectural significance it once did, the Theme Building is still worth seeing. You’ll also want to time your visit to LAX to coincide with a free public art installation. Between September and March, you can enjoy the “Art at the Airport.”
5. Tokyo Haneda Airport, Japan
Tokyo Haneda Airport is the world’s fifth busiest airport and services approximately 82 million passengers annually. It is the hub for the airlines AirAsia Japan, All Nippon Airways, Japan Airlines, and Skymark Airlines. If you’re visiting Japan, you’ll have plenty of reasons to make a stop at Tokyo Haneda Airport. You’ll be able to see the massive and unique gardens, which have been growing since 1975. You’ll also be able to visit the world’s only airport-based fashion museum. Finally, you’ll be able to take advantage of the airport’s excellent fine dining options. Tokyo Haneda Airport is also home to the world’s first airport wine bar.
6. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, Netherlands
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is the world’s sixth busiest airport and services approximately 78 million passengers every year. It is the hub for the airlines Corendon Airlines, KLM, Transavia, and TUIfly. If you’re visiting Amsterdam for the first time, you’ll want to make sure you stop by the award-winning Rijksmuseum’s branch at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. At the branch, you’ll be able to see special exhibitions, enjoy the museum’s library, and have access to the museum store. You’ll also be able to see a full-size replica of the famous “Girl with the Pearl Earring.”
7. London Heathrow Airport, United Kingdom
With approximately 78 million passengers each year, London Heathrow Airport is the world’s seventh busiest airport. It is the hub for the airlines British Airways, Norwegian, and Virgin Atlantic. If you’re visiting London for the first time, you’ll want to make sure you visit London Heathrow Airport. At Heathrow Airport, you’ll be able to see the world’s first moving walkways. If you’re traveling with kids, you can also check out the airport’s interactive exhibitions. You’ll also want to make sure you book tickets to Heathrow’s rooftop restaurant, The Sky Garden.
8. Shanghai Pudong International Airport, China
Shanghai Pudong International Airport is the world’s eighth busiest airport and services approximately 76 million passengers each year. It is the hub for the airlines AirAsia, Air Canada, Air China, British Airways, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Japan Airlines, Korean Air, Singapore Airlines, and Virgin Atlantic. If you’re visiting China and you’re traveling through Shanghai, you’ll want to make time to visit its world-famous aquarium. You’ll be able to see an underwater world full of exotic marine life while you’re waiting for your flight.
9. Hong Kong International Airport, China
Hong Kong International Airport is the world’s ninth busiest airport and services approximately 76 million passengers each year. It is the hub for the airlines Cathay Pacific Airways, China Southern Airlines, HK Express, and Scoot. If you’re visiting Hong Kong for the first time, you’ll want to make sure you visit the airport’s famous “Lippie” statue. This 40-foot-tall (12-meter) statue is used as a meeting point for loved ones. If you’re traveling with kids, you can also take them to the airport’s aquarium.
10. Incheon International Airport, South Korea
Incheon International Airport is the world’s 10th busiest airport and services approximately 75 million passengers each year. It is the hub for the airlines AirAsia, Air Canada, Air China, All Nippon Airways, Asiana Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, Korean Air, Singapore Airlines, and Turkish Airlines. If you’re visiting South Korea and you’re flying through Incheon International Airport, you’ll want to make sure you visit the airport’s massive aquarium. At the aquarium, you’ll be able to see more than 90,000 marine animals.
