Busy Airports Around the World

Planning a trip overseas? It’s a good idea to know what to expect when you arrive at the other side. Here are a few of the world’s busiest airports active all year round.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport of Atlanta, GA

This is number one busiest airport of the world. It is also known as ATL and it also holds one of the top spots for largest airport in the world. Serving over 85 million passengers yearly, it accommodated five domestic couriers designated A, B, C, D, T and one concourse especially for international flights designated E. Delta Airlines utilises the ATL as its main hub. So if your flight plans involves the ATL, expect large crowds and very tight security.

O'Hare International Airport of Chicago, IL

Its original name was Orchard Place and was renamed in honour of Lieutenant Commander Edward “Butch” O’Hare in 1949, killed in action during the war. It is the main hub for United Airlines and has over 5 terminals. It was the busiest airport back in 2005 and is highly regarded as North America’s Best Airport. It served over 69 million passengers last year.

London Heathrow Airport of London, England

UK’s largest and busiest airport has been in operation since 1946. It just recently opened the 5th terminal last year in March and has greatly improved in its service. The airport is being used by more than 90 airlines, domestic and international, and is currently the main hub for three airlines: BMI, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic.

Tokyo International Airport of Tokyo, Japan

Once the main airport in Tokyo, it currently shares that status with the Narita airport. The busiest airport in Asia is also called the Haneda Airport and served over 66 million passengers last year. It handles flights mainly from Hong Kong, Seoul and Shanghai and aims to serve over 90 million after expansion works.

Los Angeles International Airport of Los Angeles, CA

With over 9 terminals, LAX is the fifth busiest airport on the list. Being the major hub for Alaska and United Airlines, Southwest Airlines and American Airlines, it also serves as the international link to Delta Air Lines. Flights handled go to Latin America, Asia, Europe and Oceania.