The top 10 busiest airports in the world - by passenger traffic
Airports are more than transit hubs; they are the lifeblood of global movement. Each year, millions of travellers pass through the terminals of the busiest airports in the world, shaping economies, driving tourism, and facilitating trade. The 2024 busiest airports list is a revealing look at how global aviation continues to bounce back, with figures soaring past even pre-pandemic levels. Below, we break down the top 10 busiest airports 2024, measured by passenger volume, based on the most recent busiest airports rankings ACI World report. If you're a British Airways loyalty programme member or a regular BA frequent flyer, you'll be pleased to see that many of these airports are accessible with Avios redemptions.
1. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), USA The Atlanta busiest airport title remains uncontested, with over 104 million passengers annually. It consistently tops the busiest airports global ranking thanks to its strategic location and extensive domestic network. For UK travellers, there's one daily flight from London Heathrow to Atlanta. If you're wondering how to book BA flights using Avios points, an off-peak return in Premium Economy starts at 95,000 Avios plus £355, while Business Class requires 180,000 Avios plus £475. This mega-hub also leads in busiest airports aircraft movements and sits high on the busiest airports by passenger number scale.
2. Dubai International Airport (DXB), UAE A standout in the busiest Middle East airport category, Dubai handled over 86 million passengers last year. Its modern infrastructure and location connecting East and West have made it the Dubai international busiest airport for years.
BA offers multiple daily flights from London Heathrow. A return Avios booking in Premium Economy costs 85,000 Avios plus £305, and Business Class comes in at 160,000 Avios plus £375. For lounge access, eligible travellers flying BA Club World or holding oneworld Sapphire or Emerald status can use the British Airways Galleries Lounge in Terminal 1, Concourse D. This space—shared with oneworld partners—offers hot and cold buffet dining, a strong drinks selection, and digital à la carte ordering via QR code. While the lounge provides a relaxed setting, it does not consistently include shower facilities, and barista-prepared coffee availability can vary depending on the day.
3. Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND), Japan
As one of the busiest East Asia airports, Haneda now handles over 79 million passengers annually. With a growing number of international long-haul flights and a reputation for excellent punctuality, it continues to rise in the busiest international airports rankings. British Airways operates multiple daily flights from London Heathrow to Haneda. Avios redemptions start at 100,000 Avios plus £405 in Premium Economy and 200,000 Avios plus £575 in Business Class for a return journey. Business Class Avios travellers flying into or out of Haneda can access the Japan Airlines Sakura Lounge in Terminal 3. This lounge is available to those flying on a qualifying Avios redemption in Business Class, as well as to oneworld Sapphire and EThe Sakura Lounge delivers a warm, modern Japanese aesthetic, with features that consistently impress in reviews. Guests can enjoy hot buffet meals, including JAL’s signature beef curry, fresh salads, and desserts. Beverages include a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, including premium Japanese sake and MI CAFETO coffee.
Additional highlights include massage chairs, large windows with a panoramic view of the runways, and shower rooms that can be reserved on request—ideal for refreshing before or after a long-haul flight. For Avios collectors flying BA Club World or holding status, the Sakura Lounge is a real perk, offering a relaxed and distinctly local experience that reflects Japan’s blend of service, comfort, and understated style.
4. London Heathrow Airport (LHR), UK
As the UK’s flagship aviation hub, London Heathrow continues to dominate the busiest European airports 2024 list, with over 75 million passengers passing through its terminals. It consistently ranks among the busiest international airports and features prominently in the busiest airports in the world by passenger traffic. Heathrow is the operational heart of British Airways, serving as its main base across both Terminal 5 and Terminal 3. From here, BA flies to 134 destinations worldwide—all of which are available for Avios redemptions. If you're part of the British Airways loyalty programme, this makes Heathrow an essential launchpad for maximising your points. Recent plans to expand Terminal 2 and Terminal 5 suggest Heathrow is only just getting started. The proposed developments are designed to accommodate future passenger growth and enhance operational efficiency—solidifying its position on the 2024 busiest airports list. For Avios collectors, Heathrow offers far more than just flight options. Our guide on Heathrow Rewards explains how you can convert points earned in the airport's shops, dining outlets, and even car parks into Avios—adding another layer of value for frequent travellers.
And if you’re flying in style, don’t miss our complete guide to Heathrow’s airline lounges. From BA’s Galleries lounges to the exclusive Concorde Room, Heathrow delivers a premium pre-flight experience that complements the convenience of reward travel. Heathrow traffic statistics also reflect a strong resurgence, especially on transatlantic and Asia-Pacific routes, underlining its role as one of the most critical top global airport hubs in the recovery era.
5. Istanbul Airport (IST), Turkey
A major connector between Europe and Asia, Istanbul is now one of the fastest growing busiest airports globally, with nearly 76 million passengers. Flights from London Heathrow are available daily. Economy Avios redemptions cost 27,500 Avios plus £1, while Business Class is a steal at 48,500 Avios plus £25. Istanbul’s inclusion reflects its rise in top global airport hubs, and its increasing share of passenger traffic busiest airports in the region.
6. Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), USA This Texan giant ranks high on the busiest U.S. airports 2024 list, handling over 73 million passengers a year. It’s also steadily rising in the busiest airports North America rankings thanks to a surge in international and long-haul traffic. British Airways operates one daily flight from London Heathrow. Avios redemptions are available from 95,000 Avios plus £355 in Premium Economy and 180,000 Avios plus £475 in Business Class for a return journey.
For premium travellers, the American Airlines Flagship Lounge at DFW—located in Terminal D near gates D21 and D22—is a standout feature. Business Class passengers on British Airways (including Avios redemptions) and oneworld Sapphire or Emerald status holders on same-day international flights can access this lounge. Inside, you’ll find full-service dining with hot and cold buffet options, a strong lineup of premium wines, craft beers, and cocktails, along with comfortable seating areas, charging stations, and shower facilities. The lounge operates daily from early morning (5 a.m.) to around 10:15 p.m., giving long-haul flyers a relaxing space to refuel before or after their journey. It’s worth noting that guest access can be limited, and access is typically restricted to international premium cabin travellers or elite oneworld members. Still, for Avios travellers eligible for entry, this lounge offers an excellent pre- or post-flight experience through one of the fastest-growing hubs on the Dallas Fort Worth busiest ranking.
7. Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), China
With robust cargo operations and renewed international demand, Shanghai continues to rank high among the busiest airports by passenger number. It also features prominently in the Shanghai Pudong airport ranking due to its global shipping importance and consistently high busiest airports cargo tonnage. British Airways operates one daily flight from London Heathrow to Shanghai. Avios redemptions are available from 100,000 Avios plus £405 in Premium Economy and 200,000 Avios plus £575 in Business Class for a return journey.
travellers at PVG can access the Plaza Premium Lounge (No. 77 China Eastern Plaza Premium Lounge, Terminal 2)—an independent facility open to all passengers regardless of airline or ticket class. For those not eligible for airline-specific lounges or looking for a reliable pre-flight space, this lounge offers a comfortable alternative. Amenities include buffet dining, a range of hot and cold food and beverages (including alcohol), Wi-Fi, shower facilities (subject to availability), and ample charging points. It’s ideal for Avios collectors seeking a more relaxed airport experience before boarding, offering a first-class lounge atmosphere that doesn't require elite status or a Business Class ticket.
8. Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN), China Though British Airways does not currently operate direct flights to Guangzhou, the airport is vital for international connectivity in Asia. It's one of the busiest airports in Asia 2024, with over 70 million passengers annually. It’s a key node for several Asian carriers and ranks high among the busiest airport systems globally, serving as a bridge for both passenger and cargo routes in southern China. CAN also ranks in the top 10 in global air cargo airport rankings and continues to grow its international footprint.
9. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), USA
Chicago O’Hare is a major hub in the busiest airports by city analysis, handling over 72 million passengers in the last year. From Heathrow, you’ll find multiple daily BA flights. Avios redemptions begin at 85,000 Avios plus £305 in Premium Economy and 160,000 Avios plus £375 for Business Class. It also maintains a high spot in the airports council busiest airport list, driven by its central location and strong airline partnerships. Avios travellers flying in British Airways Business Class—or those with oneworld Sapphire or Emerald status—can access both the American Airlines Admirals Club and the Flagship Lounge, located in Terminal 3. These lounges offer hot meals, shower facilities, and comfortable seating areas designed for rest or productivity before onward connections, making them an excellent perk for those flying via one of the most connected airports in the world.
10. Denver International Airport (DEN), USA A surprise inclusion in the 2024 busiest airports list, Denver has benefited from strong domestic travel and growing international connectivity, handling around 72 million passengers. There’s one daily BA flight from London Heathrow. You can book Avios flights from 95,000 Avios plus £355 (Premium Economy) or 180,000 Avios plus £475 (Business Class). DEN is quickly becoming one of the top busiest airports by country, especially in terms of passenger volume and aircraft movements.
Final thoughts The world busiest airports passenger traffic patterns reveal a strong comeback for global travel. From major hubs like Atlanta and Heathrow to fast-rising stars like Istanbul and Guangzhou, these airports define the rhythm of international movement. As a British Airways membership holder, tapping into these routes with Avios opens a world of travel opportunities. Don't forget to use Reward Flight Finder to check British Airways flight status, availability, and reward seat alerts—so you never miss a chance to travel smart with points. Original Source https://rewardflightfinder.com/news-and-advice/the-top-10-busiest-airports-in-the-world-b y-passenger-traffic
