Traveling through some of the world’s busiest airports can be daunting, but don’t fret. With our insider tips, you’ll feel like a natural navigating even the largest hubs. From Atlanta to Tokyo, here’s a rundown of some of the busiest airports and how to conquer each like a pro.
1. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
Atlanta’s airport has held the top spot as the busiest airport since 1998, and it isn’t slowing down! With 104.7 million passengers last year, this travel hub sees almost 10 million more people than Dubai (the second busiest airport). It’s currently the only airport in the 100 million club, which was reached in 2015. ATL houses 22 terminals and 5 runways, offering unparalleled connectivity for those who pass through. Fun fact: ATL is home to North America’s tallest air traffic control tower!
Pro tips:
- Map out your path: This airport has two terminals: Domestic (North for Delta and South for other airlines) and International. Be sure to know which one you need to go to before heading there.
- Hop on the Plane Train: This rapid transit system shuttles you between all domestic and international concourses easily.
- Give yourself time: Because the airport is so large, make sure you leave enough time to navigate comfortably.
2. Dubai International Airport (DXB)
With 86.9 million passengers last year, Dubai International is second on the list. In 2018, it set its own record with 89.1 million passengers mainly due to the UAE’s increasing investment in tourism, attracting visitors from all over the world year after year. It’s also a large connecting hub for many flights between Europe, North America and Asia.
Pro tips:
- Know the layout: There are 3 terminals with interconnected concourses. Terminal 3 is the largest serving Emirates, Flydubai and Qantas flights. Terminal 2 handles mostly regional flights and Terminal 1 caters to international flights.
- Take the shuttle: Find yourself in the wrong spot? DXB offers complimentary buses to help you transfer quickly between terminals.
- Stay connected: Know where you are at all times and stay in touch with others by utilizing the airport’s free wifi.
- Sit back and relax: The airport offers sleep pods and even a place for massages, blowouts and manicures. If you have the time, indulge.
3. Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
DFW saw 81.8 million passengers in 2023, making it the third busiest in the world. Nearly half of its traffic was lost during COVID-19 but was able to rise to the top 10 thanks to its popularity as a connecting site for hundreds of flights across America. Dallas’s airport is the second largest airport in the country with 5 terminals, 171 gates and 7 runways. Fun fact: DFW is the first carbon-neutral airport in North America!
Pro tips:
- Download the DFW app: Use the airport’s app to download terminal maps and see the latest updates for your flight. You also can find information about dining and shopping options.
- Catch the Skylink: This automated train connects you to all five terminals. It’s quick and operates every few minutes.
- Plan your time: Allow extra time for security checks and terminal changes since the airport is large.
4. London Heathrow (LHR)
Known as Europe’s busiest airport, London Heathrow handled 79.2 million passengers last year. LHR had the most international connections in the world in 2023 and has 4 terminals and 2 runways, with a third in the works.
Pro tips:
- Know your terminal: Check your flight terminal early on, as transferring between them can be time-consuming.
- Plan for security: If you’re not an EU citizen, you should allocate extra time for immigration clearance and security checks.
- Utilize eGates: If you are a U.S. passport holder, you can use the eGates at security to get into the UK faster. For stamp collectors: you won’t get a stamp from the country by going through immigration this way, unfortunately.
5. Tokyo Haneda International Airport (HND)
Originally opened in 1931 with just a 1,000-foot runway and one terminal, Tokyo Haneda International Airport has grown to have 4 runways and 3 terminals. Last year, HND saw 78.7 million passengers and has become the 5th busiest airport in the world.
Pro tips:
- Understand the terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 handle domestic flights while Terminal 3 is the main international hub. Check ahead to see which one you should be in.
- Use transportation to the city: If you’re looking for a quick way out of HND, use the Keikyu Line or Monorail to reach central Tokyo. If you have extra luggage, consider taking the airport limousine bus.
- Take advantage of airport services: Have extra time in HND? Visit the observation decks for a panoramic view of Mount Fuji or check out Edo Ko-Ji, a shopping complex modeled after a typical street of 17th-century Japan. And if you need somewhere to store your luggage while exploring, check out the luggage storage services located throughout the terminals.
6. Denver International Airport (DEN)
Serving 77.8 million passengers last year, Denver International Airport has been on the top 20 busiest airport list every year since the turn of the millennium. It’s currently the largest airport site in North America and the second largest in the world. However, it only has 1 terminal which is where all 169 gates are.
Pro tips:
- Ride the train: Ride the shuttle train to reach concourses quickly, especially if your gate is far out.
- Keep an eye on wait times: Security checkpoint wait times can be long because of how many people pass through. Check the airport’s website for wait times which updates constantly.
7. IGA Istanbul Airport (IST)
With a strategic position between Europe, Asia and Africa, IST has seen a strong recovery since the pandemic with 76.2 million passengers passing through in 2023. Turkey has also gained popularity as a tourist destination in recent years and is a flight connection hub, making it one of the busiest airports. Although there is only one terminal, it’s the largest in the world under one roof.
Pro tips:
- Prepare for terminal size: Since every gate is within one terminal, the building is large. Arrive well ahead of your scheduled boarding time as it could take a while to get to your gate.
- Utilize airport services: Use the passenger train for seamless intra-terminal travel, freshen up at one of the airport lounges and explore dining options throughout the terminal.
8. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
LAX is one of the most famous airports in the world and saw 75.1 million passengers in the past year. It opened in 1928 and is one of the oldest and busiest airports around. There are 9 passenger terminals with more than 150 gates and 4 runways.
Pro tips:
- Terminal navigation: Check which terminal your flight departs from. If you need to switch terminals, use the free shuttle buses available to passengers.
- Speed up security: Have all your travel documents ready and consider TSA PreCheck for a quicker screening. Make sure to account for potential congestion during peak times by arriving earlier than usual.
- Local culture and comfort: If you need to waste some time while in the airport, check out one of the many LAX eateries, offering a glimpse of the diverse LA food scene.
9. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
Chicago O’Hare is a historic aviation hub with 5 terminals and 8 runways– the most runways of any civilian airport in the world. Last year, ORD had 73.9 million passengers, making it the 9th busiest airport.
Pro tips:
- Terminal transfers: Use the Automated Transit System (ATS) for quick transfers between terminals. Check your terminal ahead of time as domestic flights and international connections use separate buildings.
- Be ready for security: If you’re traveling with kids, make sure to use the designated family lines available at security for a smoother process. Arrive early and have your ID ready for TSA checks.
10. Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL)
As the primary airport for India’s capital city, New Delhi, it’s no wonder Indira Gandhi International served 72.2 million passengers in 2023. Because of India’s growing domestic aviation market, the government has begun working on another airport in the area to accommodate everyone who wants to travel. This airport features 4 runways and 3 passenger terminal buildings across 5,106 acres. Fun fact: one of the runways at DEL was built by the British Empire and used during World War II.
Pro tips:
- Know the terminals: International flights operate mainly from Terminal 3, while Terminals 1 and 2 handle domestic flights. Figure out your gate’s location in advance as they can sometimes be far apart.
- Use the shuttle: Free shuttle buses are available for those who need to be in a different terminal. Make sure to plan extra time if you need to transfer between them.
- Security and documentation: For international flights, it’s best to arrive 3 hours before your departure time to clear security and immigration checks. Ensure you have all necessary travel documents, including visas.
The most important pro tip
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These activities and websites are suggestions and Faye is in no way associated with them. This post is meant to give you ideas and inspiration on how to navigate the world’s busiest airports.