Busiest Airports in the World: Dubai Retains Top Spot for International Passenger Traffic

Global Passenger Numbers Reach 9.5 Billion in 2024

Montreal: Dubai International Airport has retained its position as the world’s busiest airport for international passenger traffic in 2024, according to preliminary figures released by Airports Council International (ACI) World. The report revealed that global passenger numbers reached nearly 9.5 billion last year, marking a 9 per cent increase from 2023 and a 3.8 per cent rise compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019.

Top 10 Busiest Airports Worldwide

The top 10 busiest airports worldwide handled a combined total of 855 million passengers in 2024, accounting for 9 per cent of global traffic. This represents an 8.8 per cent increase from the previous year and an 8.4 per cent rise from their 2019 performance, which stood at 789 million passengers.

The top 10 busiest airports in 2024 were:

• 1. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
• 2. Dubai International Airport
• 3. Dallas Fort Worth International Airport
• 4. Los Angeles International Airport
• 5. Tokyo International Airport
• 6. Beijing Capital International Airport
• 7. Shanghai Pudong International Airport
• 8. Hong Kong International Airport
• 9. Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport
• 10. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport

Air Cargo Volumes Grow

In terms of air cargo, volumes grew by 8.4 per cent year-on-year — and by 3.9 per cent compared to 2019 — reaching more than 124 million metric tonnes in 2024.

ACI World Director-General’s Comment

Commenting on the data, ACI World Director-General Justin Erbacci said, “Amid global challenges, the resilience of the world’s busiest airports shines through. These hubs are vital arteries of trade, commerce and connectivity.

“As air travel continues to grow, ACI World stands ready to support its members in ensuring the smooth flow of people and goods that underpin global economic, social and cultural progress.”

Conclusion

The world’s busiest airports continue to play a critical role in facilitating global trade, commerce, and connectivity, even in the face of global challenges. The resilience of these hubs is a testament to their importance in underpinning economic, social, and cultural progress. As air travel continues to grow, it is essential that airports and airlines work together to ensure the smooth flow of people and goods.

FAQs

Q: Which airport retained its position as the world’s busiest airport for international passenger traffic in 2024?

A: Dubai International Airport

Q: What was the total number of passengers handled by the top 10 busiest airports worldwide in 2024?

A: 855 million

Q: What was the percentage increase in global passenger numbers from 2023 to 2024?

A: 9 per cent

Q: What was the percentage increase in air cargo volumes from 2023 to 2024?

A: 8.4 per cent

Q: What was the total amount of air cargo handled in 2024?

A: More than 124 million metric tonnes