TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Air travel continues to rebound and evolve in 2025, with global passenger numbers reaching new heights. According to data from Airports Council International (ACI), global traffic has increased by 8.4% compared to 2023 and surpassed pre-pandemic levels (2019) by 2.7%. This steady growth reflects the resurgence of international tourism, business travel, and cargo operations, ultimately fueling activity at the busiest airports in the world.
Once again, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) continues its reign at #1 since 2019 as the busiest airport in the world, handling 108.1 million passengers in the past year.
Firmly holding the second spot is Dubai, serving 92.3 million passengers in 2024, an impressive 6.1% increase from 2023. Renowned for its luxury, connectivity, and status as a global transit hub, Dubai welcomed a total of 92.3 million international passengers in 2024—the highest number of international travelers handled by any airport worldwide.
Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) remains in third place with 87.8 million passengers, while Tokyo Haneda climbs to fourth, overtaking London Heathrow, with 85.9 million and 83.9 million passengers, respectively.
In contrast, Istanbul and New Delhi have surged ahead since 2019, holding top global ranks. According to ACI World, this progress is driven by “airline growth, infrastructure upgrades, and expanded connectivity.”
Notable shifts include Shanghai Pudong (PVG), which jumped 11 spots to enter the top 10, and Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN), continuing its impressive recovery by ranking 12th globally, after sitting at 57th just two years ago. The United States also continues to dominate the rankings, contributing six airports to the global top 20, driven largely by robust domestic travel demand.
Top 10 Busiest Airports in the World, Based on Total Passengers
These are officially the busiest airports in the world for passenger traffic, based on the Airports Council International (ACI) report:
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta (ATL) - 108.1 million passengers
- Dubai (DBX) - 92.3 million passengers
- Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) - 87.8 million passengers
- Tokyo Haneda (HND) - 85.9 million passengers
- London Heathrow (LHR) - 83.9 million passengers
- Denver (DEN) - 82.4 million passengers
- Istanbul (IST) - 80.1 million passengers
- Chicago O’Hare (ORD) - 80 million passengers
- New Delhi (DEL) - 77.8 million passengers
- Shanghai Pudong (PVG) - 76.8 million passengers
As quoted from ACI World, global air passenger numbers are forecast to hit 9.9 billion in 2025, with a 4.8% annual growth rate. While demand stays strong, growth is set to decelerate as the market shifts from rapid recovery to steady, structural expansion.
And if you’re looking to begin your journey on the right note, why not start at one of the most beautiful airports in the world?