The United States takes pride in its vast, modern airports, ensuring millions of passengers enjoy comfortable and safe flights every year. Here, we present the top 5 largest airports in the U.S., featuring major hubs like San Francisco and New York. Additionally, we’ll take a closer look at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood and Miami airports, which play a significant role in the country's aviation infrastructure.
Atlanta Airport (Hartsfield-Jackson) sells more Chick-fil-A chicken sandwiches than any other location in the USA! 🍗✈️
Top 5 Largest Airports in the U.S.
01. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
Atlanta’s airport consistently holds the title of the busiest airport in the world by passenger volume. Each year, over 100 million travelers pass through its terminals. Thanks to its strategic location, ATL serves as a primary connecting hub for domestic and international flights, linking destinations across the U.S. and beyond.
Key Features
- Five parallel runways that allow for high traffic capacity.
- Two massive terminals: one for domestic flights and one for international travel.
- A well-developed infrastructure with numerous restaurants, shops, and lounges.
02. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
LAX is the second busiest airport in the U.S. and the primary air gateway to the West Coast. It handles approximately 88 million passengers annually. The airport is famous for its iconic architectural design and proximity to Hollywood, making it a popular choice for both tourists and celebrities.
Key Features
- Nine passenger terminals, connected by shuttle buses.
- A wide range of international destinations, especially in Asia and Oceania.
- Ongoing renovations and expansions to enhance passenger experience.
03. O’Hare International Airport (ORD) – Chicago
Handling around 83 million passengers per year, O’Hare is one of the most important aviation hubs in the U.S. It’s known for its complex runway system and frequent weather-related delays.
Key Features
- Four terminals serving both domestic and international flights.
- A major hub for United Airlines and American Airlines.
- Continuous modernization and expansion projects to improve efficiency.
04. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
DFW ranks fourth in the U.S. in terms of passenger volume, serving approximately 75 million travelers annually. Located between Dallas and Fort Worth, it offers convenient access to both cities.
Key Features
- Five terminals, all linked by the automated SkyLink train system.
- One of the largest airports in the world by land area.
- A major hub for American Airlines.
05. Denver International Airport (DEN)
Denver International Airport is the largest airport in the U.S. by land area and serves around 69 million passengers annually. Thanks to its central location, DEN is a vital hub for domestic flights.
Key Features
- Jeppesen Terminal, featuring a distinctive roof design inspired by the Rocky Mountains.
- Six runways, ensuring high traffic capacity.
- A strong focus on art, culture, and passenger experience.
San Francisco and New York Airports
San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
SFO is one of the largest airports on the West Coast, handling around 58 million passengers annually. It is renowned for its sustainability efforts and cutting-edge passenger services.
Key Features
- Four terminals, including a world-class international terminal.
- An extensive network of routes to Asia and Europe.
- Eco-friendly initiatives, including programs to reduce CO₂ emissions.
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) – New York
JFK is New York’s primary international airport, serving around 62 million passengers each year. It is one of the most diverse airports in the world, connecting travelers to nearly every continent.
Key Features
- Six passenger terminals, each serving different airlines.
- A vast selection of international routes, especially to Europe, Asia, and Latin America.
- Ongoing upgrades and expansions to enhance facilities and passenger flow.
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood and Miami Airports
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
This airport is a key transportation hub in Florida, particularly popular among budget airlines and cruise passengers. It serves over 36 million travelers annually.
Key Features
- A preferred gateway for Caribbean and Latin American travel.
- Convenient proximity to Port Everglades, a major cruise port.
- Four terminals, each catering to specific airlines.
- A strong presence of low-cost carriers like Spirit Airlines and Southwest Airlines.
Miami International Airport (MIA)
MIA is one of the largest U.S. airports and a key hub for flights to Latin America. It handles around 50 million passengers per year.
Key Features
- The primary hub for American Airlines.
- Direct flights to over 150 international destinations.
- A modern infrastructure featuring hotels, restaurants, and business lounges.
- Automated border control systems for smoother transit and security checks.
Essential Tips for Arriving at U.S. Airports
Traveling to the U.S. involves immigration and customs procedures that can take time. To ensure a smooth arrival, it's important to be prepared in advance.
01. Passport Control & Customs
- Most travelers need a U.S. visa or ESTA authorization (if eligible for the Visa Waiver Program).
- If bringing in declarable goods, ensure you fill out a customs declaration form in advance.
- Border officers may ask about your visit’s purpose, duration, and accommodation details.
02. Secondary Inspection
If immigration officers have additional questions, they may direct you to secondary inspection. This is a standard process, especially for first-time visitors.
03. Domestic Flight Connections
- If your final destination is another U.S. city, you must first clear customs, collect luggage, and re-check your bags for your next flight.
- Allow at least 2–3 hours for layovers to ensure enough time for security checks and boarding.
04. Mobile Connectivity & Internet
- Free Wi-Fi is available in most U.S. airports, though some may require registration.
- Consider buying an eSIM or international SIM card for affordable connectivity.
05. Payments & Transportation
- Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but cash may be needed for some taxis and vending machines.
- Transportation options include taxis, Uber/Lyft, and public transit, depending on the city.
06. Import Restrictions
- Fresh fruits, meats, and plants are generally not allowed without special permits.
- If carrying more than $10,000 in cash, you must declare it at customs.
07. Premium Travel Services with American Butler
For a hassle-free experience, American Butler offers premium services, including airport transfers, personal assistance, and travel arrangements.
Booking and buying air tickets around the world
Luxury Travel Services by American Butler
U.S. airports are known for their scale, service quality, and technological advancements. Whether you’re flying through the world’s busiest airport in Atlanta or a major international hub like Miami, these airports play a crucial role in global air travel.
If you need assistance with trip planning, ticket booking, or personal concierge services, American Butler is here to provide a seamless, first-class experience. Contact us today and travel with ease!
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