Leading airports worldwide based on aircraft movements 2024
Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport reigns supreme as the world's busiest airport by aircraft movements, recording over 796,224 take-offs and landings in 2024. This staggering figure underscores the dominance of U.S. airports in global air traffic, with seven out of the top ten busiest airports located in the United States. The sheer volume of aircraft movements at these hubs highlights the critical role airports play in facilitating global connectivity and commerce.
Cargo handling shapes global trade dynamics
Beyond passenger traffic, airports play a crucial role in global trade through their cargo handling capabilities. Hong Kong International Airport maintained its position as the world's largest hub for international air freight, processing nearly five million metric tons of cargo. Shanghai Airport secured the second spot, handling 3.8 million metric tons. In Europe, Frankfurt am Main Airport led the continent in cargo handling with 1.95 million metric tons, closely followed by Istanbul Airport with 1.9 million metric tons. These figures underscore the vital importance of air freight in facilitating international commerce and supporting global supply chains.
