Peter MokoenaFrom coast to coast, the United States is home to some of the busiest and most dynamic airports in the world. These aviation hubs aren’t just transit points—they’re cultural gateways, economic engines, and architectural marvels.
Whether you’re chasing business deals in New York, beach vibes in Miami, or tech dreams in San Jose, these airports connect millions of travelers to every corner of the globe. In this guide, we explore the top US airports, and what makes them tick.
Top 50 Busiest Airports In The US
1. Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the world’s busiest airport by passenger volume, serving as a major hub for Delta Air Lines. Located just south of downtown Atlanta, ATL offers nonstop flights to over 150 domestic and 70 international destinations. Its efficient layout and dual terminals handle over 100 million passengers annually. Known for its speed, connectivity, and Southern hospitality, ATL is a gateway to the Southeast and a vital link in global air travel.
2. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
Spanning over 17,000 acres, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport is the second-largest airport in the U.S. by land area and a key hub for American Airlines. Located between Dallas and Fort Worth, DFW connects travelers to more than 250 destinations worldwide. Its five terminals are linked by a convenient Skylink train system. With robust international service, modern amenities, and strategic location, DFW plays a central role in domestic and global aviation.
3. Denver International Airport (DEN)
Denver International Airport is the largest airport in the U.S. by land area, covering 33,531 acres. Known for its iconic peaked roof resembling the Rocky Mountains, DEN serves as a major hub for United and Southwest Airlines. Located 25 miles northeast of downtown Denver, it offers flights to over 200 destinations. With a focus on sustainability and expansion, DEN is a gateway to the American West and a rising star in global connectivity.
4. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Los Angeles International Airport is a bustling gateway to the Pacific Rim and Hollywood’s hometown airport. Serving over 88 million passengers annually, LAX offers nonstop service to six continents. Its nine terminals are undergoing a multi-billion-dollar modernization to enhance passenger experience. As a hub for American, Delta, and United, LAX is vital for both leisure and business travel. From luxury lounges to celebrity sightings, LAX blends glamour with global reach.
5. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
Chicago O’Hare International Airport is a cornerstone of American aviation, offering nonstop flights to over 200 destinations. Located northwest of downtown Chicago, ORD is a hub for United and American Airlines. Its four terminals and eight runways make it one of the busiest airports in the world. Known for its efficiency and connectivity, O’Hare is a key player in transatlantic and domestic travel, linking the Midwest to the globe with precision and speed.
6. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
JFK is New York City’s premier international gateway, located in Queens. As a major hub for American and Delta Airlines, it connects travelers to over 70 countries. Known for its iconic Terminal 5 and cutting-edge Terminal 4, JFK blends global reach with urban energy. With nonstop flights to every continent except Antarctica, it’s a vital artery for transatlantic travel and a symbol of New York’s cosmopolitan pulse.
7. Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Orlando International Airport is Florida’s tourism powerhouse, welcoming millions of visitors to theme parks and sunshine. Located just 10 miles from downtown Orlando, MCO is a hub for Southwest and JetBlue. It offers nonstop service to over 150 destinations, including major cities in Europe and Latin America. With palm-lined terminals, family-friendly amenities, and a sleek new Terminal C, MCO is both a vacation launchpad and a growing international player.
8. Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
Located in the heart of Las Vegas, Harry Reid International Airport is a vibrant hub for leisure and business travelers alike. With two terminals and nonstop flights to over 140 destinations, LAS is a gateway to the Southwest and beyond. It’s a major base for Southwest Airlines and offers easy access to the Strip. From slot machines in the terminal to luxury lounges, LAS captures the spirit of Vegas from touchdown to takeoff.
9. Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)
Charlotte Douglas International Airport is a key hub for American Airlines and a major connector for East Coast and Midwest travel. Located just minutes from downtown Charlotte, CLT offers nonstop service to over 180 destinations. Its single terminal design makes connections efficient, and its rapid growth reflects Charlotte’s rising status as a business and banking center. With Southern charm and strategic importance, CLT is a cornerstone of domestic aviation.
10. Miami International Airport (MIA)
Miami International Airport is the U.S. gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean. As a hub for American Airlines, MIA offers nonstop service to over 160 destinations. Located near downtown Miami, it’s a cultural crossroads with multilingual signage and international flair. MIA handles more international freight than any other U.S. airport and is a key player in global commerce. Its terminals pulse with energy, reflecting Miami’s vibrant, diverse identity.
11. Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
Seattle–Tacoma International Airport, or Sea-Tac, is the Pacific Northwest’s primary aviation hub. Located between Seattle and Tacoma, SEA is a major base for Alaska Airlines and Delta. It offers nonstop flights to Asia, Europe, and across North America. Known for its sustainability initiatives and scenic views of Mount Rainier, SEA blends innovation with natural beauty. Its expanding terminal and international arrivals facility reflect Seattle’s global tech-driven growth.
12. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
Newark Liberty International Airport serves the New York metropolitan area and is a major hub for United Airlines. Located in New Jersey, EWR offers nonstop flights to over 130 destinations worldwide. Its proximity to Manhattan makes it a popular choice for international travelers. With recent upgrades to Terminal A and a focus on passenger experience, Newark is shedding its gritty reputation and emerging as a sleek, efficient gateway to the Northeast.
13. San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
San Francisco International Airport is a global gateway to Silicon Valley and the Pacific Rim. Located 13 miles south of downtown San Francisco, SFO is a hub for United Airlines and Alaska Airlines. It offers nonstop service to Asia, Europe, and Latin America. Known for its art installations, gourmet dining, and sustainability efforts, SFO combines tech-savvy design with West Coast charm. Its international terminal is among the most advanced in the U.S.
14. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is Arizona’s largest and busiest airport, serving as a hub for American and Southwest Airlines. Located just three miles from downtown Phoenix, PHX offers nonstop flights to over 100 destinations. Its desert-inspired architecture and efficient layout make it a favorite among travelers. With expanding terminals and a new Sky Train system, PHX is growing rapidly to meet the demands of the Southwest’s booming population.
15. George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
George Bush Intercontinental Airport is Houston’s primary international gateway and a major hub for United Airlines. Located 23 miles north of downtown, IAH offers nonstop service to six continents. Its five terminals handle millions of passengers annually, with a strong emphasis on Latin American and Asian routes. Named after the 41st U.S. president, IAH reflects Houston’s global energy industry and multicultural identity. It’s a key player in international business and travel.
16. Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
Boston Logan International Airport is New England’s largest and busiest airport, located just three miles from downtown Boston. It serves as a hub for Delta and Cape Air, and a focus city for JetBlue. With four terminals and nonstop service to Europe, Asia, and the Americas, BOS blends historic charm with modern efficiency. Its waterfront location offers stunning views, and its commitment to sustainability makes it a leader in eco-conscious aviation.
17. Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
FLL is South Florida’s vibrant gateway, located just 21 miles north of Miami. It’s a major base for JetBlue, Spirit, and Southwest Airlines, offering over 700 daily flights to 135 destinations. Known for its convenience and affordability, FLL is popular with cruise passengers heading to Port Everglades. Its four terminals are color-coded for easy navigation, and recent upgrades have enhanced international service, making it a rising star in U.S. aviation.
18. Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport (MSP)
MSP is the Upper Midwest’s aviation hub, located equidistant from downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul. It’s a major hub for Delta and home to Sun Country Airlines. With two terminals and 131 gates, MSP offers flights to over 160 destinations. Renowned for customer satisfaction and efficiency, it features local dining, art installations, and a strong focus on sustainability. MSP is a vital connector for both domestic and international travel.
19. LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
LaGuardia Airport serves New York City with a focus on short-haul domestic flights. Located in Queens, just eight miles from Midtown Manhattan, LGA is a hub for Delta and American Airlines. Its recent multi-billion-dollar renovation transformed Terminal B into a sleek, modern facility. Despite its compact footprint and perimeter rule limiting long-haul flights, LaGuardia remains a critical player in Northeast air travel, prized for its proximity and rapid connections.
20. Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)
DTW is Michigan’s busiest airport, located in Romulus, 18 miles southwest of downtown Detroit. It’s a major hub for Delta and a base for Spirit Airlines. With two terminals and six runways, DTW offers service to over 140 destinations worldwide. Known for its McNamara Terminal’s mile-long concourse and Express Tram, DTW combines efficiency with comfort. It’s a key connector for Midwest travelers and a gateway to international business hubs.
21. Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
PHL is Pennsylvania’s largest airport, located seven miles from downtown Philadelphia. It’s a major hub for American Airlines and a regional base for UPS. With seven terminals and service to over 130 destinations, PHL connects the Northeast to Europe, the Caribbean, and beyond. Its strategic location and robust cargo operations make it vital for commerce. Recent upgrades focus on passenger comfort, accessibility, and sustainability.
22. Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)
BWI serves both Baltimore and Washington, D.C., and is a major base for Southwest Airlines. Located in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, it’s known for affordability and efficiency. With over 27 million passengers annually, BWI offers flights to 90+ destinations. Named after Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, it blends civic pride with modern amenities. Its proximity to major highways and rail lines makes it a favorite for regional travelers.
23. Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
SLC is Utah’s primary airport and a major hub for Delta Air Lines. Located just four miles from downtown Salt Lake City, it offers nonstop service to over 100 destinations. Known for its punctuality and scenic approach over the Wasatch Mountains, SLC is undergoing a $5 billion redevelopment. Its sleek new terminals and efficient layout make it a top choice for travelers heading to the Intermountain West and beyond.
24. Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
IAD is the Washington, D.C. region’s primary international gateway, located 26 miles west of the capital. Designed by architect Eero Saarinen, its iconic terminal is a symbol of mid-century modernism. A hub for United Airlines, Dulles offers flights to over 130 destinations worldwide. With expansive runways and global reach, IAD handles the majority of the region’s international traffic and continues to expand with new concourses and transit links.
25. San Diego International Airport (SAN)
SAN, also known as Lindbergh Field, is the busiest single-runway airport in the U.S., located just three miles from downtown San Diego. It’s a hub for Alaska Airlines and a focus city for Southwest. With stunning coastal views and a compact footprint, SAN offers flights to over 60 destinations. Its terminals feature local cuisine, art, and eco-friendly design. SAN is a gateway to Southern California’s beaches, biotech, and border crossings.
26. Tampa International Airport (TPA)
Tampa International Airport is Florida’s Gulf Coast gateway, located just six miles west of downtown Tampa. Known for its innovative “landside-airside” terminal design, TPA offers seamless connections and short walking distances. It serves over 90 destinations and is a hub for Southwest and Silver Airways. With modern amenities, local cuisine, and a strong emphasis on customer service, TPA consistently ranks among the top U.S. airports for passenger satisfaction and operational efficiency.
27. Portland International Airport (PDX)
Portland International Airport is Oregon’s largest and most beloved airport, located just 12 miles from downtown Portland. Known for its iconic carpet, local food vendors, and eco-friendly design, PDX offers flights to over 60 destinations. It’s a hub for Alaska Airlines and a model of sustainability, with LEED-certified terminals and green initiatives. Travelers appreciate its calm vibe, efficient layout, and Pacific Northwest charm, making it a frequent winner of “best airport” accolades.
28. Nashville International Airport (BNA)
Nashville International Airport, affectionately known as BNA, is the gateway to Music City. Located seven miles southeast of downtown, it offers nonstop service to over 100 destinations. With a single terminal and five concourses, BNA blends Southern hospitality with modern design. It’s a base for Southwest and Allegiant, and features live music performances, local eateries, and art installations. BNA is expanding rapidly to meet growing demand, including new international routes and upgraded facilities.
29. Austin–Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)
Austin–Bergstrom International Airport is the heart of Central Texas aviation, located just eight kilometers southeast of downtown Austin. Built on the site of a former Air Force base, AUS offers flights to over 90 destinations. It’s a hub for Southwest and a focus city for Delta. Known for its live music, local food, and laid-back vibe, AUS reflects Austin’s creative spirit. The airport is expanding to meet surging demand from tech and tourism.
30. Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)
Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, formerly Honolulu International, is Hawaii’s primary gateway. Located on Oʻahu, just three miles from downtown Honolulu, HNL connects the islands to Asia, Oceania, and North America. It’s a hub for Hawaiian Airlines and features open-air terminals, tropical landscaping, and cultural exhibits. With runways extending into the Pacific and a rich aviation history, HNL is both a strategic military base and a vital link for island tourism.
31. San Jose International Airport (SJC)
Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport serves Silicon Valley with efficiency and tech-savvy flair. Located just three miles from downtown San Jose, SJC offers nonstop service to over 40 destinations. It’s a focus city for Alaska Airlines and a major base for Southwest. With two terminals and a sleek design, SJC caters to business travelers and leisure passengers alike. Its proximity to tech giants makes it a key player in Bay Area aviation.
32. Kansas City International Airport (MCI)
Kansas City International Airport is Missouri’s aviation hub, located 15 miles northwest of downtown. Recently transformed by a $1.5 billion terminal upgrade, MCI now features 39 gates, modern amenities, and improved accessibility. It’s a base for Southwest and serves over 11 million passengers annually. Known for its drive-to-your-gate design and Midwestern hospitality, MCI is a rising star in U.S. airport rankings, offering nonstop service to major domestic and international destinations.
33. Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
Sacramento International Airport is Northern California’s gateway to the state capital and beyond. Located 10 miles northwest of downtown Sacramento, SMF offers flights to over 40 destinations. It features two terminals and a consolidated rental car facility. Known for its ease of use and scenic surroundings, SMF is a favorite among travelers heading to Lake Tahoe, Napa Valley, and Yosemite. It’s served by Southwest, Delta, and Alaska, with growing international service to Mexico.
34. Raleigh–Durham International Airport (RDU)
Raleigh–Durham International Airport serves North Carolina’s Research Triangle region, including Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. Located in Wake County, RDU offers nonstop service to over 80 destinations, including 14 international cities. It’s a focus city for Delta and a base for Avelo Airlines. With two terminals and a reputation for cleanliness and efficiency, RDU is expanding to meet growing demand. It’s a vital link for tech, education, and biotech industries.
35. Indianapolis International Airport (IND)
Indianapolis International Airport is Indiana’s busiest airport, located seven miles southwest of downtown. It features a single terminal with two concourses and offers nonstop service to over 50 destinations. IND is home to FedEx’s second-largest hub and a base for Allegiant and Republic Airways. Known for its award-winning design, fast Wi-Fi, and Hoosier hospitality, IND consistently ranks among the top U.S. airports for passenger satisfaction. It’s a gateway to the Midwest and beyond.
36. St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL)
St. Louis Lambert International Airport is Missouri’s largest and busiest airport, located 14 miles northwest of downtown St. Louis. Named after aviation pioneer Albert Bond Lambert, STL has deep historical roots, including ties to Charles Lindbergh and the first air traffic control system. It offers nonstop service to over 80 destinations and serves as a hub for Southwest Airlines. With two terminals and a rich legacy, STL connects the Midwest to the nation and beyond.
37. Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE)
Cleveland Hopkins International Airport is Ohio’s busiest airport, located nine miles southwest of downtown Cleveland. Founded in 1925, CLE pioneered several aviation innovations, including the first air traffic control tower and the first airport connected to a rail transit system. It offers nonstop service to over 40 destinations and is a base for Frontier Airlines. With three runways and a focus on modernization, CLE remains a vital link for Northeast Ohio’s travelers and businesses.
38. Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT)
Pittsburgh International Airport serves Western Pennsylvania and parts of Ohio and West Virginia. Located 20 miles west of downtown Pittsburgh, PIT spans over 12,900 acres, making it one of the largest airports by land area in the U.S. Known for its innovative terminal design and immersive amenities, PIT offers nonstop service to over 50 destinations. It’s a hub for Southern Airways Express and a growing cargo center, reflecting Pittsburgh’s transformation from steel to tech.
39. Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)
CVG is the primary airport for the Cincinnati tri-state area, located in Hebron, Kentucky. It’s a major cargo hub for Amazon Air and DHL, ranking among the top five U.S. airports for cargo traffic. CVG offers nonstop service to over 50 destinations and is a base for Allegiant and Frontier Airlines. With modern terminals and rapid growth, CVG blends regional accessibility with global logistics, making it a rising star in both passenger and freight aviation.
40. San Antonio International Airport (SAT)
San Antonio International Airport is South Texas’s primary airport, located eight miles north of downtown. It features two terminals and offers nonstop service to over 30 destinations across the U.S. and Mexico. SAT reflects the city’s rich history and military ties, with origins dating back to 1941. It’s served by major carriers like Southwest, American, and United. With expanding facilities and a welcoming vibe, SAT is a gateway to the Alamo City’s culture and commerce.
41. Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE)
Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport is Wisconsin’s busiest airport, located five miles south of downtown Milwaukee. Named after General Billy Mitchell, a pioneer of U.S. air power, MKE features five runways and serves travelers across Southern Wisconsin and Northern Illinois. It offers nonstop service to over 40 destinations and is a hub for cargo and regional flights. With a mix of historic charm and modern upgrades, MKE is a vital connector in the Midwest.
42. Jacksonville International Airport (JAX)
Jacksonville International Airport is Northeast Florida’s primary airport, located 13 miles north of downtown Jacksonville. Opened in 1968, JAX offers nonstop service to over 30 destinations and serves more than 7 million passengers annually. It features two runways and a single terminal with two concourses. Known for its convenience and Southern hospitality, JAX is expanding to meet growing demand, including a new Concourse B. It’s a gateway to Florida’s beaches, business hubs, and military bases.
43. Palm Beach International Airport (PBI)
Palm Beach International Airport serves West Palm Beach and the surrounding communities in South Florida. Located just three miles from downtown, PBI offers nonstop service to over 30 destinations. Known for its ease of access, short lines, and tropical ambiance, PBI is a favorite among leisure travelers. It began as Morrison Field in 1936 and has a rich military history. Today, it blends convenience with charm, making it one of Florida’s most user-friendly airports.
44. Ontario International Airport (ONT)
Ontario International Airport is Southern California’s inland gateway, located 38 miles east of Los Angeles. It’s a major cargo hub for UPS and FedEx and offers nonstop service to over 20 destinations. ONT is known for its speed and convenience—passengers often reach their gate in under 12 minutes. With expanding international service and modern amenities, ONT is a rising star in the region, serving the fast-growing Inland Empire with efficiency and flair.
45. Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ)
Albuquerque International Sunport is New Mexico’s largest airport, located just three miles southeast of downtown Albuquerque. Known for its Pueblo Revival architecture and cultural décor, ABQ offers nonstop service to over 30 destinations. It’s a hub for Southwest Airlines and features local cuisine, art, and shops that reflect the region’s heritage. With shared facilities alongside Kirtland Air Force Base, ABQ blends civilian and military aviation, serving as the gateway to the Land of Enchantment.
46. Richmond International Airport (RIC)
Richmond International Airport serves Central Virginia from Sandston, just seven miles southeast of downtown Richmond. A joint civil-military facility, RIC offers nonstop service to over 25 destinations and is served by nine airlines. With a sleek, modern terminal and recent expansions, RIC balances the charm of a regional airport with the efficiency of a larger hub. It’s a gateway to Virginia’s capital and a vital connector for travelers across the Mid-Atlantic region.
47. Charleston International Airport (CHS)
Charleston International Airport is South Carolina’s busiest airport, located in North Charleston about 12 miles from downtown. It’s a joint-use facility with Joint Base Charleston and a focus city for Breeze Airways. CHS offers nonstop service to over 50 destinations and is home to Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner assembly plant. With a spacious terminal, Southern hospitality, and a growing international presence, CHS is a key gateway to the Lowcountry’s charm and commerce.
48. Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW)
Southwest Florida International Airport, located in Fort Myers, serves the Cape Coral–Naples region and beyond. RSW is one of the busiest single-runway airports in the U.S., offering nonstop service to over 50 destinations. Operated by the Lee County Port Authority, it spans over 13,000 acres, making it one of the largest airports by land area. With a tropical vibe, modern terminals, and expanding international service, RSW is a vital hub for Florida’s Gulf Coast.
49. Boise Air Terminal (BOI)
Boise Air Terminal, also known as Gowen Field, is Idaho’s busiest airport, located just three miles south of downtown Boise. A joint civil-military facility, BOI serves over 4.9 million passengers annually and offers nonstop service to major cities across the West. Its single terminal features two concourses, modern amenities, and efficient operations. BOI is a gateway to Idaho’s outdoor adventures and a strategic base for firefighting and military logistics.
50. Omaha Eppley Airfield (OMA)
Eppley Airfield is Nebraska’s largest airport, located just four miles northeast of downtown Omaha. Owned by the Omaha Airport Authority, OMA offers nonstop service to over 30 destinations and serves more passengers than all other Nebraska airports combined. With three runways and two concourses, Eppley blends Midwestern hospitality with modern infrastructure. It’s a key connector for the region and a growing hub for both passenger and cargo operations.
Closing
Airports are more than terminals and tarmacs—they’re reflections of the cities they serve and the people who pass through them. From Atlanta’s unmatched connectivity to Boise’s mountain charm, each airport plays a unique role in shaping America’s travel landscape. Whether you’re a frequent flyer, aviation enthusiast, or just curious about where the country moves, these 50 airports offer a fascinating glimpse into the pulse of U.S. air travel. Safe travels—and may your gate always be close and your flight on time.