Traveling through some of the world’s busiest airports can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right insider tips, you can move through massive hubs like a pro. From Atlanta to Delhi, here’s your go-to guide for making it through the top 10 busiest airports smoothly.
1. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
Quick facts:
- ATL has been known as the busiest airport in the world since 1998
- 108 million passengers in 2024
- 22 terminals, 5 runways
- 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)
Quick facts:
- 92.3 million passengers in 2024
- DXB is a global hub linking Europe, North America, and Asia
- Famous for luxury amenities and traveler perks
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)
Quick facts:
- 87.8 million passengers in 2024
- DFW is the second-largest airport in the U.S., with 5 terminals, 171 gates, and 7 runways
- 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 can also 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)
Quick facts:
- Europe’s busiest airport with 83.9 million passengers in 2024
- 4 terminals and 2 runways
- LHR is known for the highest number of international connections
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. Denver International Airport (DEN)
Quick facts:
- 82.4 million passengers in 2024
- DEN is the largest airport site in North America and the second largest in the world
- 1 terminal with 169 gates
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 are updated constantly.
6. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
Quick facts:
- 80 million passengers in 2024
- ORD is a historic aviation hub with 5 terminals and 8 runways (the most of any civilian airport worldwide)
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.
7. iGA Istanbul Airport (IST)
Quick facts:
- 79.9 million passengers in 2024
- IST is a gateway between Europe, Asia, and Africa
- The largest terminal building 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)
Quick facts:
- 76.5 million passengers in 2024
- 9 terminals, 150+ gates, 4 runways
- LAX opened in 1928 and is one of the world’s oldest and most iconic airports
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. Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL)
Quick facts:
- 77 million passengers in 2024
- 4 runways, 3 terminals across 5,100+ acres
- DEL is becoming a major hub for India’s rapidly growing aviation market
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.
10. Tokyo Haneda International Airport (HND)
Quick facts:
- HND opened in 1931 with just a 1,000-foot runway and one terminal
- It now has 4 runways and 3 terminals
- 55.2 million passengers in 2024
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.
The most important pro tip
Navigate your vacation as easily as you can with Faye Travel Insurance.
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.
