The 15 Busiest Airports In The US That Make Flying A Lot More Exciting

The United States is home to some of the busiest airports in the world. In fact, 15 of the world's busiest airports are located in the US. These airports handle a staggering amount of passenger and cargo traffic every day, making them some of the most important transportation hubs in the country.

The top 15 busiest airports in the US are:

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Ranked: 1st in U.S

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the busiest airport in the world, handling 53.4 million passengers each year. The airport is located just south of downtown Atlanta, making it convenient for both business and leisure travelers.

The airport has two main terminals - the Domestic Terminal and the Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal - as well as a number of concourses. The Domestic Terminal handles domestic flights within the United States, while the International Terminal handles flights to and from international destinations.

The airport is served by a number of airlines, including Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. It offers direct flights to major cities across the globe, making it an important hub for travel.

Ground Transport:

• Charter buses
• Hotel Shuttles
• Limousines and Taxis
• Rental Cars
• Shared-Ride Shuttle
• Rideshare/TNCs

Los Angeles International Airport

Ranked: 2nd in U.S

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the busiest airport in California and the second busiest airport in the United States, handling over 42.8 million passengers each year. LAX is a major international gateway for flights to and from Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East. The airport is also a hub for domestic flights within the US, with nonstop service to over 90 US cities.LAX is located just south of downtown Los Angeles, in the neighborhood of Westchester.

The airport covers 3,500 acres of land and has nine passenger terminals, four runways, and numerous on-site hotels and restaurants. With such a high volume of passengers, it's no surprise that LAX can be a bit chaotic at times. But thanks to its large size and efficient layout, the airport is able to handle the crowds relatively well. Just be sure to give yourself plenty of time to get through security!

Ground Transport:

• FlyAway® Nonstop Bus Service
• LAX Shuttle
• Scheduled Buses
• Charter buses
• Taxis
• Limousines
• Rental Cars
• Ride Apps

Chicago O’Hare International Airport

Ranked: 3rd in U.S

O'Hare International Airport is the busiest airport in the world, handling over 40.8 million passengers each year. The airport is located on the far northwest side of Chicago, Illinois, and is a major hub for both domestic and international flights. O'Hare has four main terminals (A, B, C, and D) and nine concourses (E-K), with a total of 186 gates. The airport also has two runways that are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the terminal buildings.

O'Hare is notoriously busy, and delays are common. In fact, it was recently named the most delayed airport in the United States. But despite the challenges, O'Hare remains one of the busiest airports in the world.

Ground Transport:

• Chicago Transit Authority (CTA)
• Shuttles
• Regional Buses
• Taxi, Limo, Rideshare
• CTA Blue Line
• Rental Cars

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport

Ranked: 4th in U.S

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is the busiest airport in Texas and the 9th busiest airport in the United States, handling over 35.7 million passengers annually. Located between the two major cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, DFW is a hub for both domestic and international travel.

The airport offers non-stop service to destinations all over the world, making it a convenient gateway to the rest of the world for travelers from North Texas. In addition to its many passenger amenities, DFW is also home to a large cargo operation, handling over 4 million tons of freight each year.

Ground Transport:

• Charter buses
• Taxis
• Limousines
• Rental Cars
• Ride Share

On Airport Hotels:

• Grand Hyatt DFW Airport
• Hyatt Regency DFW International Airport
• Hyatt Place DFW
• Minute Suites

Denver International Airport

Ranked: 5th in U.S

Denver International Airport (DEN) is the busiest airport in Colorado, handling over 34 million passengers each year. Located 25 miles from downtown Denver, the airport is served by a number of airlines, including American Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. It offers nonstop service to almost 200 destinations worldwide.

DEN is the largest airport in North America, covering a total of 53 square miles. It has six runways and three main terminals (A-B-C). The airport also offers an array of amenities for travelers, including free Wi-Fi and numerous restaurants and shops.

Ground Transport:

• A Line Commuter Train
• Charter buses
• Mountain Carriers
• Taxis
• Limousines
• Rental Cars
• Ride Apps
• Shared-Ride Services

On Airport Hotel:

• The Westin Denver International Airport

New York - JFK International Airport

Ranked: 6th in U.S

JFK International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, handling over 31 million passengers each year. Located in New York City, JFK is a major hub for both domestic and international travel. JFK is served by over 90 airlines, with non-stop service to more than 120 destinations around the globe. It's also home to several cargo facilities and two major runways, keeping air traffic moving quickly in and out of the airport.

There are plenty of ways to get around JFK International Airport, whether you're looking for a quick and easy way to get to your gate or you need to transport some heavy luggage. For those who just need to get from point A to point B, the airport offers a variety of shuttle services that run regularly throughout the day.

If you have a lot of luggage or are traveling with small children, there are also electric carts available for rent. For those who want to explore beyond the airport grounds, there are also a number of rental car companies located on-site. And when it's time to head home, there are plenty of taxis and ride-sharing services available to take you where you need to go.

Ground Transport:

• AirTrain
• NYC Subway System
• Long Island Railroad
• Taxi, Car, and Van Service
• Car Rentals

On Airport Hotel:

• TWA Hotel

San Francisco International Airport

Ranked: 7th in U.S

SFO is the airport code for San Francisco International Airport. The airport is located 13 miles south of downtown San Francisco, California. It has four runways and serves the Greater Bay Area. In 2022, it was the seventh busiest airport in the United States and the 7th busiest in the world with over 27.7 million passengers.

SFO offers non-stop flights to more than 100 domestic and international destinations on 45 different airlines. The airport is a hub for United Airlines and Virgin America. It is also a focus city for Allegiant Air, Southwest Airlines, and Spirit Airlines.

The airport has three terminals: Terminals 1, 2, and 3. Terminal 1 houses United Airlines, Virgin America, Delta Air Lines, and other international carriers while Terminal 2 handles all other domestic airlines including Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and Southwest Airlines among others. Lastly, Terminal 3 is home to low-cost carrier Allegiant Air.

SFO is served by BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) as well as several bus lines including SamTrans, AC Transit, Marin Transit, Golden Gate Transit, Greyhound Bus Lines, and Amtrak Thruway Bus Service which provides service to San Joaquin Valley cities such as Fresno and Bakersfield.

Ground Transport:

• BART Rapid Rail
• Caltrain Commuter Rail
• SamTrans Public Bus Service
• Airporters (privately operated buses)
• Airport Shuttle
• Car Rentals

On Airport Hotel:

SFO created a new, luxurious hotel that is both Airport-owned and privately managed: the Grand Hyatt at SFO. It is conveniently situated near terminal buildings and parking garages at the entrance of SFO, with great access to US Highway 101. Additionally, AirTrain provides direct access to the hotel.

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport

Ranked: 8th in U.S

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac) is the primary commercial airport serving the Seattle metropolitan area in the U.S. state of Washington. It is located in the city of SeaTac, approximately 13 miles (21 km) south of Downtown Seattle and 18 miles (29 km) north-northeast of Downtown Tacoma. The airport is owned and operated by the Port of Seattle.

Sea-Tac is the hub for Alaska Airlines and its regional subsidiary Horizon Air, whose headquarters are near the airport, as well as a focus city for Southwest Airlines. In 2022, Sea-Tac was the 8th busiest airport in North America and the thirteen busiest in the world by passenger traffic handling over 46 million passengers, a record number of passengers for the airport. It was also the ninth busiest airport by international passenger traffic and the eighteenth busiest cargo airport in North America. As of 2019, it was home to five major airlines that fly to 81 domestic destinations and 31 international destinations including Canada, Mexico, and Honolulu with direct service to Asia.

The airport serves as a gateway to the Pacific Northwest region for both domestic and international visitors.

Ground Transport:

• Public Bus
• Inter-City Shuttles
• Inter-Terminal Shuttle
• Airport Tram
• Taxis
• Limousines
• Rental Cars
• Ride Share

Orlando International Airport

Ranked: 9th in U.S

Orlando International Airport is the busiest airport in Florida and the 9th busiest airport in the United States. In 2022, it served over 24.5 million passengers making it the busiest airport in the state and the ninth busiest airport in the United States. Orlando International Airport is also a hub for Southwest Airlines and JetBlue Airways.

The airport is located six miles (10 km) southeast of downtown Orlando, in Orange County. It is operated by the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. MCO covers an area of 13,000 acres (5,300 ha) and has four runways and two terminals. The airport is home to the Air Traffic Control Tower, which is the tallest in the nation.

Orlando International Airport is also home to one of the largest art collections in any U.S. airport. In 2017, Orlando International Airport was ranked first in customer satisfaction among mega airports by J.D. Power & Associates.

Ground Transport:

• Rental Cars
• Hotel Shuttles
• Local Buses
• Ride Sharing
• Taxi Cabs
• Shuttle Vans
• Sunrail

On Airport Hotel:

• Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport

Las Vegas International Airport

Ranked: 10th in U.S

Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) is the 10th busiest airport in the United States, handling over 24.4 million passengers each year. The airport is a hub for both domestic and international travel, with direct flights to destinations all over the world. Located just 5 miles from downtown Las Vegas, LAS is convenient for both leisure and business travelers alike.

LAS offers a wide variety of amenities and services to make your travel experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. From free WiFi to an on-site casino, there’s something for everyone at LAS. The airport also has a number of dining and shopping options, so you can grab a bite or do some last-minute souvenir shopping before your flight.

Whether you’re flying into Vegas for a quick weekend getaway or an extended vacation, Harry Reid International Airport will make sure you get where you’re going without any hassle.

Ground Transport:

• Public Bus
• Inter-City Shuttles
• Inter-Terminal Shuttle
• Airport Tram
• Taxis
• Limousines
• Rental Cars
• Ride Share

Charlotte Douglas International Airport

Ranked: 11th in U.S

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is an international airport located in Charlotte, North Carolina. It is the sixth busiest airport in the United States and a major hub for American Airlines, as well as an important gateway to the South Eastern United States region.

In 2022, Charlotte Douglas International Airport handled over 24 million passengers making it the 11th busiest airport in the United States, and the 23rd busiest airport in the world. CLT covers an area of 5,000 acres (2,023 ha) and has five runways and two terminals. Charlotte Douglas International Airport is also home to a number of amenities including free WiFi, charging stations, restaurants, duty-free shops, and a pet relief area.

The airport is conveniently located just 7 miles (11 km) from downtown Charlotte, making it a great option for both leisure and business travelers alike. Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, make sure to take advantage of all that Charlotte Douglas International Airport has to offer.

Ground Transport:

• Taxis
• Rental Cars
• Limo & Shuttle Services
• CATS Sprinter Service

Newark Liberty International Airport

Ranked: 12th in U.S

Newark International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the United States, handling over 23 million passengers each year. The airport is located just outside of New York City in Newark, New Jersey, making it a convenient option for travelers looking to fly into the area.

Newark offers a wide range of flights to destinations around the world and is a major hub for both domestic and international travelers. The airport is well-equipped to handle the large number of passengers it sees each year, with two main terminals that offer a variety of amenities and services.

There are plenty of food and drink options available throughout the airport, as well as shops for last-minute purchases. Passengers can also take advantage of complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the facility.

Whether you're flying into Newark for business or pleasure, you can be confident that you'll have a smooth and hassle-free experience at this busy airport.

Ground Transport:

• AirTrain
• Public Transportation
• Taxi, Car, and Van Service

On Airport Hotel:

• Newark Liberty International Airport Marriott

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport

Ranked: 13th in U.S

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is the busiest airport in Arizona and the 22nd busiest airport in the United States. In 2022 PHX served more than 22 million passengers. PHX is located in Phoenix, Arizona, and is just three miles from downtown.

The airport offers non-stop service to more than 100 domestic and international destinations. Passengers can choose from a variety of transportation options to get to and from PHX, including taxis, buses, light rail, rental cars, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft.

The airport also has its own Valley Metro Rail station for easy access to public transportation. For those driving to the airport, there are more than 20,000 parking spaces available in both Terminal 2 and Terminal 4.

Parking rates start at $4 per hour for Economy Parking and go up to $30 per day. Whether you're flying for business or pleasure, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport makes travel easy and convenient.

Ground Transport:

• Rental Cars
• Taxis, Vans & Limos
• Ride Share
• Statewide Shuttles
• Public Transportation
• ADA Accessible Vehicles
• Bicycling to Sky Harbor

George Bush Intercontinental Airport

Ranked: 14th in U.S

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is the largest airport in Houston, Texas. In 2022, IAH served 21.9 million passengers and it's a hub for United Airlines, and it is the 14th busiest airport in the United States.

The airport is named after former President George H.W. Bush, who was born in Houston. IAH is a hub for United Airlines and offers service to a wide variety of domestic and international destinations.

The airport is located about 25 miles north of downtown Houston, making it easily accessible by car or public transportation. In addition to its passenger traffic, IAH is also a major cargo hub, handling over two million tons of cargo each year.

The airport is home to a number of businesses and facilities, including an on-site hotel, conference center, and two runways that are over 12,000 feet long. IAH is an important part of the Houston community and economy and continues to grow each year.

Ground Transport:

• Taxis and Ride Apps
• Limousines and Sedans
• Shuttles and Buses
• Rental Cars
• Inter-Terminal Transportation

On Airport Hotel:

• Houston Airport Marriott at George Bush Intercontinental

Miami International Airport

Ranked: 15th in U.S

Miami International Airport (MIA) is the second busiest airport in Florida and the 15th busiest airport in the United States. The airport served over 20 million passengers in 2022 and is located about 8 miles from downtown Miami, making it convenient for travelers looking to visit the region.

MIA offers non-stop service to over 150 destinations throughout the United States, Latin America, and the Caribbean. In addition to its passenger traffic, MIA is also a major cargo hub for FedEx Express.

The airport features two runways that are over 12,000 feet long, allowing it to accommodate larger aircraft. Passengers flying out of MIA can take advantage of plenty of amenities, such as free Wi-Fi, a variety of restaurants and shops, and the MIA Mover, an automated people mover system that connects passengers to the Miami rental car hub.

Ground Transport:

• Car Rentals
• Hotel Shuttles
• Port of Miami
• Public Transportation
• Taxis & Ride App
• Train Service

On Airport Hotel:

• Miami International Airport Hotel

We hope this list of the 15 busiest airports in the US has inspired you to get out there and explore all that our country has to offer. From the bustling streets of New York City to the sunny beaches of Los Angeles, there's something for everyone in America. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next adventure today!