U.S. Aviation Dominates Global Market with Top 7 Hubs in 2024

The United States has solidified its position as the largest aviation market in the world, with an impressive lead of over 140 million passengers compared to China in 2023. In 2024, nearly 900 million passengers utilized commercial flights across the country, nearly three times the population of the U.S. This robust activity is concentrated among several major airports, with the top seven hubs playing a significant role in the aviation landscape.

Leading the Pack: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

At the forefront is Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), which recorded over 105 million passengers in 2024. As the primary hub for Delta Air Lines, ATL has maintained its status as the busiest airport in the world by passenger traffic since 1998, with the exception of 2020. The airport’s operations soared with approximately 800,000 flights serving more than 150 domestic and over 70 international destinations. Its extensive infrastructure includes five parallel runways and the tallest air traffic control tower in North America, employing over 55,000 workers.

Other Major Hubs Making Waves

Following closely is Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), which welcomed nearly 88 million passengers in 2024. DFW is the second busiest airport in the U.S. and third in the world. It boasts the largest portfolio of destinations in North America, with 269 total destinations, of which 73 are international. The airport is currently engaged in a significant expansion project, “DFW Forward,” which aims to invest up to $12 billion by constructing a new terminal.

“The goal is to surpass 100 million annual passengers by the end of the decade,”

said a spokesperson for DFW.

Another significant player is Denver International Airport (DEN), the largest airport by land area, servicing over 82 million passengers in 2024. It is the largest global hub for United Airlines and a primary base for Southwest Airlines. With major renovations underway, DEN contributes approximately $50 billion to Colorado’s economy annually.

Notable Airports in the Top Seven

The fourth position is held by Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), which recorded over 80 million passengers. A dual hub for both American Airlines and United Airlines, ORD had its busiest year in 2024, and forecasts suggest it may reclaim the title of the busiest airport in the world by aircraft movements in the near future.

Following closely are Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), both exceeding 55 million passengers in 2024. LAX is renowned for its role as a major hub on the West Coast, while JFK, which celebrated its busiest month in August 2025 with 6 million travelers, serves as a crucial gateway to international destinations.

Lastly, Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) rounds out the top seven, serving over 55 million passengers. As a major hub for American Airlines, CLT is undergoing a significant $4 billion improvement project to accommodate its rapid growth.

Overall, the U.S. aviation sector continues to thrive, demonstrating resilience and adaptability in meeting the demands of an ever-increasing number of travelers. The significant investments in infrastructure and capacity at these major hubs reflect a commitment to maintaining their leadership in the global aviation market.