Top 50 major Airports In America by population

Busiest International U.S. Airports by total commercial Aircraft

1. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)

As the busiest Airport in the world, Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) is known for moving huge numbers of passengers efficiently and smoothly every day. It’s the main hub for Delta Air Lines, which means that a large number of Delta’s Flights in the U.S. and internationally pass through Atlanta. The Airport’s unique design has a central "spine" with seven concourses lined up next to each other, all linked by the underground "Plane Train." This train is actually the most-used automated people mover in the world, helping millions of people get to their gates quickly. Even though the Airport is massive, ATL stands out for more than just its size. It has a vibrant food scene, highlighted by "One Flew South," a restaurant that’s been called one of the best Airport restaurants anywhere. In addition, Atlanta’s Airport has a permanent art program, filling the long pedestrian tunnels between terminals with murals, sculptures, and historical displays. This turns what could be a boring walk into an interesting museum-like experience, giving travelers a taste of Atlanta’s culture and history as they move through the Airport.

2. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)

Larger than the island of Manhattan, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is truly enormous, so big that it operates almost like a small city. It has its own zip code, police department, fire department, and even medical services for emergencies. DFW is the main hub for American Airlines, which means that many Flights, both domestic and international, connect through this Airport.

One of the Airport’s best-known features is the Skylink train, a fast, automated people mover that travels inside the secure area. This means that passengers do not have to go through security again when transferring between any of the five terminals, making connections much easier and less stressful. The train runs frequently, so even if your next Flight is in a different terminal, you can get there in just a few minutes.

Besides its size and efficiency, DFW offers unique amenities for travelers. For example, “Gameway” is a new lounge where people can play video games while waiting for their Flights, which is a great way to relax or pass the time, especially for younger travelers. There’s also a Hyatt Regency hotel connected directly to Terminal C, so passengers with long layovers or early morning Flights don’t have to leave the Airport to find a place to stay. This level of convenience, along with its many shops, restaurants, and services, makes DFW one of the most traveler-friendly Airports in the country.

3. Denver International Airport (DEN)

Famous for its peaked fiberglass roof that mimics the snow-capped Rocky Mountains, DEN is visually one of the most distinct Airports in the world. It is the largest US Airport by land area (53 square miles) and has embraced the wild conspiracy theories surrounding its artwork and underground tunnels with tongue-in-cheek marketing campaigns. Inside, travelers can enjoy an open-Air plaza before security, a distinct bridge walkway where you can watch planes taxi beneath you, and an impressive collection of local Colorado breweries and dining options scattered throughout the concourses.

4. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

Once the busiest Airport in the world, O'Hare remains a critical global gateway with a dual-hub status for both United and American Airlines. The Airport is perhaps most famous for the psychedelic, neon-lit underground tunnel connecting Concourse B and C in Terminal 1, which features the "Sky's the Limit" light sculpture. O'Hare is currently undergoing a massive 21st-century transformation (O'Hare 21) to replace unmatched terminals with a modern "Global Terminal," but it already boasts excellent local touches, such as branches of Chicago’s famous Tortas Frontera by Rick Bayless and Garrett Popcorn Shops.

5. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

The "Gateway to the Pacific," LAX is iconic for its mid-century modern "Theme Building," a white, spider-like structure that houses a restaurant and observation deck (though currently closed to the public). The Airport is unique for its "horseshoe" layout where traffic loops through the terminals, a design that is currently being upgraded with a new Automated People Mover to relieve congestion. LAX is a celebrity-spotting haven and features the Private Suite (PS), an ultra-exclusive terminal for VIPs, but regular travelers can enjoy the revamped Tom Bradley International Terminal, which features towering multimedia clock towers and high-end luxury boutiques.

6. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

JFK is the premier international gateway to the United States, hosting more distinct Airlines than almost any other American Airport. Its terminals are a mix of history and modernity; the most famous feature is the TWA Hotel, a restored Flight center designed by Eero Saarinen in the 1960s that now serves as a retro-chic hotel right on the tarmac. While the Airport is currently undergoing a massive multibillion-dollar redevelopment to unify its scattered terminals, it remains a foodie destination with options like Shake Shack and local New York delis, alongside the stunning "Endless Corridor" in Terminal 4.

7. Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)

Appropriately for Sin City, this is the only major Airport where you can gamble the moment you step off the plane, with over 1,300 slot machines located throughout the terminals. The Airport offers a stunning view of the Las Vegas Strip during approach and departure, providing one of the most scenic visual experiences in domestic travel. Beyond the gambling, it houses an aviation museum with exhibits on the history of Flight in Southern Nevada and offers incredibly fast access to the city center, being located just two miles from the main resort corridor.

8. Orlando International Airport (MCO)

The gateway to Disney World and Universal Studios, MCO is designed to feel like a vacation resort from the moment you land, featuring a massive central atrium with palm trees, fountains, and a Hyatt hotel. The recently opened Terminal C is a technological marvel, featuring "The Moment Vault," an immersive multimedia installation, and massive windows that let in Florida sunshine. It is one of the few Airports with a high-speed intercity rail connection (Brightline), allowing passengers to hop on a train directly from the Airport to Miami and South Florida.

9. Miami International Airport (MIA)

As the primary connecting point between the United States and Latin America, MIA acts as a cultural melting pot with a distinct bilingual atmosphere. The Airport is a massive cargo hub (especially for flowers) and features "The Wall of Honor" and vibrant art installations like the "Harmonic Convergence" in the connector walkways, which uses light and glass to create a rainbow spectrum. It offers a unique "Yoga Room" for relaxation and arguably the best Cuban coffee you can find in an Airport terminal, specifically at the famous Versailles restaurant outpost.

10. Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)

Charlotte is a massive fortress hub for American Airlines and is beloved by travelers for its Southern charm, most notably exemplified by the white wooden rocking chAirs lining the central Atrium. This signature feature allows travelers to sit, relax, and watch the piano player who performs live music in the main court, creating a calm atmosphere rare in such a busy hub. CLT is also one of the most efficient Airports for connections due to its single-terminal design with radiating concourses, making it difficult to get lost even during tight layovers.

11. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

Sea-Tac offers one of the most beautiful terminal views in the country, with the Central Terminal’s massive glass wall looking out over the Airfield toward the Olympic Mountains. The Airport is deeply connected to the Pacific Northwest’s music scene, featuring a dedicated Sub Pop record store and live music performances throughout the week. It has recently renovated its N Concourse with modern, Airy timber architecture that mimics the feeling of a Washington forest, alongside excellent local dining options like Beecher's Handmade Cheese.

12. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)

Consistently ranked as one of the friendliest and most reliable Airports in the country, Sky Harbor is located remarkably close to downtown Phoenix. Its standout feature is the "Sky Train," which takes passengers over an active taxiway bridge—offering a thrilling view of planes passing underneath you—before depositing you at the rental car center. The Airport also houses the Phoenix Airport Museum, one of the largest Airport museum systems in the US, with art exhibitions scattered across all terminals that celebrate Arizona's desert culture.

13. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Historically dreaded by travelers, Newark has dramatically turned its reputation around with the opening of the new, world-class Terminal A. This new facility is a stunning tribute to New Jersey, featuring locally inspired art, a diverse food court with Jersey favorites, and spacious, light-filled gate areas. EWR remains a critical hub for United Airlines and offers one of the fastest connections to Manhattan via the AirTrain and NJ Transit, making it a viable alternative to JFK for city-bound travelers.

14. San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

SFO is a leader in passenger wellness, featuring the world’s first Airport "Yoga Room" and the famous "Wag Brigade," a team of therapy animals (including a pig and a rabbit) that roam the terminals to comfort stressed travelers. The Airport is practically an art gallery, functioning as the only accredited museum in an Airport with rotating exhibits on everything from typewriters to fashion. Terminal 2 and the new Harvey Milk Terminal 1 set the standard for sustainable, modern design, offering locally sourced organic food and quiet, spa-like atmospheres.

15. George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)

Houston’s primary Airport is a sprawling complex that serves as a massive gateway to Latin America for United Airlines. It is known for its five distinct terminals connected by both an underground train and an elevated "Skyway," allowing for extensive movement Airside. The Airport features one of the largest collections of public art in Texas, including the "Light Spikes" sculpture, and offers a true taste of the city with outposts of famous local Tex-Mex and BBQ joints, ensuring you don't leave Texas hungry.

16. Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)

Surrounded by water on three sides, Logan offers some of the most dramatic takeoff and landing views in the country, with sweeping vistas of the Boston Harbor and city skyline. The Airport is known for the "Kidport" play areas designed by the Boston Children’s Museum, making it a favorite for families. It is also remarkably close to the city center, accessible via the "Silver Line" bus or even a water taxi that ferries passengers across the harbor to downtown, providing a scenic start to a Boston visit.

17. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)

Often seen as the lower-stress alternative to Miami, FLL is a major hub for low-cost carriers like Spirit and JetBlue, serving as a gateway to the Caribbean. The Airport is famous for its " Hibiscus Garage" and the colorful terrazzo floors designed by artist Gordon Huether that depict the Florida coastline. It is incredibly convenient for cruise passengers, located just two miles from Port Everglades, allowing travelers to see their cruise ships from the terminal windows before they even leave the Airport.

18. Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP)

Frequently voted the best Airport in North America for its efficiency and cleanliness, MSP is a major Delta hub that handles winter weather better than almost anywhere else. The Airport features a stunning "quiet seating area" on the mezzanine level overlooking the mall, and large mosaic art installations referencing the "North Star" state. A key highlight is the proximity to the Mall of America; a quick light rail ride takes you from the terminal to the country’s largest shopping mall in under 15 minutes.

19. New York LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

LaGuardia has pulled off the greatest comeback in aviation history, transforming from a widely mocked facility into a gleaming, state-of-the-art Airport. The new Terminal B features a stunning pedestrian skybridge that allows planes to taxi underneath passengers as they walk to their gates. The Airport now boasts a world-class water feature that uses laser projection and music, alongside high-end local dining and spacious, light-filled concourses that have finally done justice to its location just minutes from midtown Manhattan.

20. Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)

Detroit’s McNamara Terminal is widely considered one of the best-designed terminals in the world, featuring a streamlined linear layout served by a silent, red "Express Tram" that glides inside the building. The terminal’s centerpiece is a massive fountain designed by WET Design (creators of the Bellagio fountains) that shoots water specifically "choreographed" to music. Connecting the concourses is a famous underground tunnel featuring a synchronized LED light show and ambient music, turning a long walk into an immersive psychedelic experience.

21. Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)

PHL is a major transatlantic gateway for American Airlines and serves as the main entry point for Pennsylvania. The Airport is famous for its "Philadelphia Marketplace," a mall-like corridor between terminals that features over 160 shops and restaurants, including local legends like Chickie's & Pete's (famous for crab fries). Art is central here, with the "Art at the Airport" program featuring rotating exhibits from Philadelphia artists, making the long walks between the connected terminals visually engaging.

22. Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)

Recently completely rebuilt, the new SLC is a stunning architectural feat designed to handle the region's massive ski traffic. The centerpiece of the new terminal is "The Canyon," a football-field-sized art installation on the walls that mimics the striated rock formations of Utah's slot canyons. The Airport is incredibly clean and efficient, acting as a major Delta hub, and features large windows that frame the Wasatch Mountains, constantly reminding travelers of the rugged landscape just outside.

23. Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)

As the busiest Airport in the DC-Maryland region, BWI is a favorite for budget-conscious travelers and is a massive hub for Southwest Airlines. It is unique for having a dedicated 12.5-mile hiking and biking trail that encircles the Airport property, complete with a park where families can watch planes land. Inside, the Airport offers a "Observation Gallery" with aviation exhibits and a gym (ROAM Fitness) where travelers can work out and shower before their Flights.

24. Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)

DCA is famous for the "River Visual" approach, a landing path that follows the Potomac River and offers white-knuckle views of the national monuments and the White House just seconds before touchdown. The Airport’s "National Hall" in Terminal 2 is a masterpiece of architecture, featuring soaring domes, glass walls, and yellow steel beams that evoke a classic 19th-century train station. It is the most convenient Airport for DC, with a Metro station directly connected to the terminal via a covered walkway.

25. San Diego International Airport (SAN)

Known for having the busiest single runway in the US, SAN is located incredibly close to downtown, meaning planes fly thrillingly low over the city skyline and Little Italy before landing. The Airport has revamped its Terminal 2 with a "Sunset Cove" food court that features local craft breweries like Stone Brewing and floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over the bay. It is also one of the greenest Airports, boasting the first LEED Platinum-certified commercial Airport terminal in the world.

26. Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)

Designed by legendary architect Eero Saarinen, the main terminal of Dulles is a mid-century masterpiece with a sweeping, hammock-like roof that is a federally protected landmark. While famous for its unique "Mobile Lounges"—strange, bus-like vehicles that ferry passengers across the tarmac—the Airport has largely replaced them with the AeroTrain underground system. It remains the primary long-haul international hub for the capital region, hosting a vast array of foreign flag carriers.

27. Tampa International Airport (TPA)

Tampa is frequently voted the most "user-friendly" Airport in America due to its revolutionary "hub-and-spoke" design, where a central landside terminal connects to Airside satellites via monorails. This design means walking distances are minimal, and you are never far from your gate. The Airport recently underwent a major renovation, adding outdoor terraces, a new rental car center connected by the "SkyConnect" train, and a giant flamingo sculpture named "Phoebe" that has become an Instagram sensation.

28. Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)

Located in a dense residential neighborhood, Midway is the "world’s busiest square mile" regarding Airport operations and acts as the spiritual home of Southwest Airlines. While much smaller than O’Hare, its compact size makes it a favorite for locals who want to get from the curb to the gate in minutes. The Airport features a "Battle of Midway" exhibit commemorating the WWII naval battle, and its food court is a "Taste of Chicago" in miniature, featuring local staples like deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs.

29. Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)

Honolulu’s Airport is an open-Air embrace of the tropics, featuring walkways that are open to the elements and surrounded by lush Japanese, Chinese, and Hawaiian cultural gardens. Passengers can walk through these serene gardens to move between terminals, enjoying koi ponds and blooming flowers instead of sterile hallways. It is the primary lifeline for the state of Hawaii, connecting the islands to the mainland and serving as a major stopover for trans-Pacific Flights to Asia.

30. Portland International Airport (PDX)

PDX has a cult following unlike any other Airport, largely due to its famous teal geometric carpet (which has its own merchandise line) and a strict "street pricing" policy that prevents vendors from overcharging for food. The Airport is currently finalizing a massive new roof made of locally sourced timber that evokes the forests of the Pacific Northwest. With free movies at the Hollywood Theatre outpost and live local music, PDX consistently ranks as the best Airport in the US for traveler satisfaction.

31. Dallas Love Field (DAL)

The historic home of Southwest Airlines, Love Field is located just minutes from downtown Dallas and offers a much more intimate experience than the colossal DFW. The Airport is steeped in history; it was the arrival point for President Kennedy on the day of his assassination, an event commemorated by a marker on the tarmac. Modernized in recent years, it features a bright, art-filled terminal with a "Moss Wall" and high-tech amenities, maintaining a boutique feel despite high traffic.

32. St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL)

STL is an architectural icon; its main terminal, designed by Minoru Yamasaki (who also designed the World Trade Center), features four sweeping domed vaults that inspired Airport design worldwide. It serves as a major focus city for Southwest Airlines and holds a special place in aviation history as the home base of Charles Lindbergh. The Airport features a rich collection of history, including a "Black Americans in Flight" mural and a replica of the Spirit of St. Louis hanging in the main terminal.

33. Nashville International Airport (BNA)

True to its "Music City" nickname, BNA features multiple stages across the terminals with live country and jazz performances greeting travelers daily. The Airport is in the midst of a massive expansion called "BNA Vision," which has added a soaring new lobby with a massive art installation that mimics the flow of Air. It is also one of the few Airports that allows non-travelers to get a pass to go through security, just to eat, drink, and watch the live music inside.

34. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)

Austin’s Airport perfectly captures the "Keep Austin Weird" vibe, featuring a stage in the center of the terminal (Ray Benson’s Asleep at the Wheel Stage) that hosts live bands. The food selection is strictly local, featuring Austin favorites like Salt Lick BBQ, Torchy’s Tacos, and Amy’s Ice Creams. The terminal is Airy and filled with natural light, and the "Barbara Jordan Terminal" is named after the civil rights leader, featuring a statue in her honor near the baggage claim.

35. William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)

Houston’s second Airport, Hobby, holds the distinction of being the first Airport in North America to receive a 5-Star rating from Skytrax. It is the main international gateway for Southwest Airlines’ Flights to the Caribbean and Mexico from Texas. The Airport is compact, modern, and incredibly easy to navigate, with a distinct "Art Program" that features sculptures and murals reflecting Houston’s diversity, making it a preferred alternative to the massive IAH for many locals.

36. Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC)

Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, SJC is arguably the most technologically forward-thinking Airport on the list, featuring "Zoom Zone" workspaces and robotic customer service assistants. Its long, linear terminal design makes navigation simple, and the "Hands" art installation on the rental car garage exterior is a local landmark. SJC is known for its speed and convenience, marketing itself as the hassle-free alternative to SFO for tech executives and Bay Area residents.

37. Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)

Having recently opened a brand new, $1 billion terminal, MSY has finally given New Orleans a world-class gateway worthy of its culture. The terminal features three concourses connected by a "Jazz Garden" performance venue where brass bands play for arriving passengers. The food scene is exceptional, with outposts of legendary local restaurants like Café du Monde (for beignets) and Emeril’s, ensuring the party starts the moment you land.

38. Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)

RDU serves the "Research Triangle" and is known for its stunning Terminal 2, which features a "wood truss" roof structure designed to look like the handmade crafts of the region. The Airport is quiet, efficient, and features a " serene" vibe that contrasts with the busy hubs of the northeast. It offers a popular "Observation Park" near the runway where locals come to picnic and watch planes, highlighting the Airport's strong connection to the local community.

39. Sacramento International Airport (SMF)

Sacramento’s Terminal B is famous for "Leap," a giant 56-foot-long red rabbit sculpture suspended from the ceiling, which appears to be diving into a stone suitcase on the floor below. This whimsical art sets the tone for an Airport that is consistently praised for being stress-free and easy to navigate. An automated people mover connects the terminal to the concourse, and the dining options focus heavily on the "Farm-to-Fork" movement that the Sacramento region is known for.

40. Kansas City International Airport (MCI)

For decades, MCI was known for a unique three-terminal "loop" design that was convenient but lacked amenities; however, in 2023, it opened a single, massive, state-of-the-art terminal that has completely revitalized the Airport. The new MCI features the largest public art project in Kansas City history, glass jet bridges (a rarity in the US), and a dedicated BBQ pit in the terminal (Meat Mitch). It is now fully accessible and inclusive, with sensory rooms and adult changing tables, setting a new standard for universal design.

41. John Wayne Airport (SNA)

Serving Orange County and Disneyland, SNA is famous for its "noise abatement" takeoff procedure, where pilots take off at a steep angle and then cut power abruptly to coast quietly over Newport Beach millionAires' homes. The terminal features a larger-than-life bronze statue of its namesake, John Wayne (The Duke), greeting passengers near the baggage claim. It is smaller and more exclusive than LAX, often preferred by business travelers for its quick security lines and manageable size.

42. Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE)

Cleveland holds a place in history as the first Airport in the Western Hemisphere to have a direct rapid transit rail connection to downtown (the RTA Red Line). It is also the site of the first Air traffic control tower and the first Airfield lighting system. Today, it features the "Rock and Roll Hall of Fame" store and museum exhibits in the terminal, including guitars and costumes from music legends, celebrating the city's musical heritage.

43. San Antonio International Airport (SAT)

San Antonio’s Airport reflects the city’s rich Hispanic heritage and history, with mariachi bands often playing during festive seasons. The Airport is currently undergoing expansion, but its existing terminals are known for being compact and easy to navigate. A unique feature is the "Cultural artifacts" displayed throughout the terminals, lending it a museum-like quality that educates visitors on the history of the Alamo City before they even step outside.

44. Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT)

Once a mega-hub for US Airways, PIT is reinventing itself as the "Terminal of the Future," with a massive construction project underway to build a new landside terminal right next to the gates to eliminate the need for a train. The Airport is currently powered by its own microgrid, fueled by natural gas wells and solar panels located on Airport property, making it one of the most energy-resilient Airports in the world. It also features a "Mothers' Nursing Lounge" and a sensory room designed with the help of the autism community.

45. Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW)

Serving the beaches of Fort Myers and Sanibel, RSW is one of the fastest-growing Airports in the country due to the post-pandemic Florida travel boom. The terminal is designed to feel like a Florida resort, with a bright, Airy layout and plenty of views of the surrounding wetlands. It is incredibly user-friendly, with a single main terminal building that feeds into three concourses, minimizing walking time for the heavy volume of leisure travelers and retirees that use it.

46. Indianapolis International Airport (IND)

Consistently ranked #1 in customer satisfaction for medium-sized Airports by J.D. Power, IND serves as a model of civic pride. The centerpiece is the "Civic Plaza," a massive circular open space that hosts events and art installations, leading into the ticketing halls. The Airport is flooded with natural light and features the "KIN" sculpture, which greets travelers with golden, waving ribbons, symbolizing the hospitality of the Midwest.

47. Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)

Though its passenger numbers have fluctuated, CVG remains a behemoth in the cargo world (home to Amazon's Air hub) and a favorite for passengers due to its lack of crowds. The Airport features vivid mosaic murals that were saved from the city’s historic Union Terminal train station, depicting industrial workers in the Art Deco style. It is also known for using "cleaning robots" and IoT technology in bathrooms to monitor cleanliness in real-time, ensuring a spotless environment.

48. John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)

Named after the astronaut and senator, Columbus’s Airport is a key business hub for the Midwest. It features a modern, clean design with a distinct focus on local pride, including a dedicated "Ohio State University" store for Buckeye fans. The Airport is currently planning a replacement terminal, but the existing facility is praised for its "brushstroke" art installations and the ease of access to the rental car center and downtown Columbus.

49. Oakland International Airport (OAK)

Often the foggy underdog to SFO, Oakland is the preferred Airport for the East Bay and travelers looking to avoid SFO’s weather delays. It is a major base for Southwest Airlines and is known for its reliability and simple, no-frills efficiency. The Airport is located adjacent to the San Francisco Bay, and the drive to the terminal offers scenic water views; it serves as the gateway to Napa Valley for many due to its proximity to the northern highways.

50. Jacksonville International Airport (JAX)

Rounding out the list is JAX, the gateway to Northeast Florida and Southern Georgia. The Airport is famous for its "Art in Public Places" program, specifically the "Haskell Gallery" located pre-security, which showcases fine art from regional artists. The terminal features a unique "Cooling ChAir" area and live piano music, maintaining a relaxed, Southern coastal atmosphere that feels miles away from the stress of a typical international Airport.