Air travel in the United States is busier than ever. Yet the past year has shown that even the country's biggest aviation hubs are not immune to disruption. Airports including Atlanta, Chicago O'Hare, Dallas Fort Worth, and New York's JFK made headlines after severe thunderstorms, air traffic control issues, and technology-related disruptions triggered thousands of flight delays and cancellations, leaving travellers stranded and exposing the challenges of managing massive passenger volumes.
But even with such occasional challenges, the most active American airports continue to be the access points for some of the most renowned attractions around the nation. Starting from the amusement parks in Orlando, beach resorts in Los Angeles, vibrant cities like New York and Las Vegas, or mountain retreats in Colorado, American airports provide connections to amazing adventures for millions of travellers on an annual basis. According to a report by Remitly, the following is the list of 10 busiest airports in the USA.
Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Georgia
Having more passenger traffic than any other airport in America, Atlanta can be regarded as a main hub of American aviation. Located near downtown Atlanta, the airport is an important entryway to the Southern part of the country. There are many places of interest to visit including such attractions as the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, as well as historic locations associated with the fight for civil rights.
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Texas
The phrase ‘everything is bigger in Texas’ holds true even for DFW. One of the largest airports by land area in the entire world, it connects visitors to two entirely different cities - contemporary Dallas and historical Fort Worth. Among the attractions tourists will be able to discover are world-renowned museums, culinary spots, Fort Worth Stockyards, and many more.
Denver International Airport (DEN), Colorado
Denver is considered a great starting point for all outdoor enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies. From ski destinations to mountain villages, hiking trips to the National Parks, everything in Colorado starts and ends in DEN. The unique design of the airport, its roof resembling snowy mountain tops, welcomes every visitor to the Rocky Mountains.
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Illinois
As a vital connection airport, ORD connects tourists with every major city in the country. While visiting Chicago, visitors can explore the city’s lakeside parks, admire its architecture, visit museums, and, of course, taste world-famous deep-dish pizza.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), California
LAX serves as the first introduction to California for numerous tourists. The airport provides access to Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Malibu, and many other places associated with the Golden State. This airport also offers perfect opportunities for a Pacific Coast road trip, which is considered one of the greatest American driving journeys.
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New York
JFK serves one of the world's most famous cities. From Broadway and Times Square to Central Park and the Statue of Liberty, New York offers enough attractions to fill multiple trips. The airport remains one of the busiest gateways for both domestic and international travellers entering the United States.
Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), Nevada
The fun begins even before tourists depart from this airport due to the numerous slot machines located around the facility. In addition to providing transportation services to Las Vegas, the airport also becomes the entrance to tourist attractions such as Red Rock Canyon, Hoover Dam, and Grand Canyon.
Miami International Airport (MIA), Florida
The airport at Miami is representative of the city's cosmopolitan nature. It functions as the gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean as well as millions of tourists who visit the city. Travellers have the opportunity to explore Miami's popular beaches, Art Deco buildings, culinary diversity, and night life.
Orlando International Airport (MCO), Florida
Every year, millions of families travel through Orlando's airport on their way to Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort. Other options in Orlando include natural reserves, fresh water springs, and proximity to Florida's Space Coast.
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), North Carolina
While Charlotte might not attract as much attention as cities like New York or Los Angeles, the airport is one of the busiest in the United States. In addition, the city itself offers plenty of attractions such as museums, stadiums, and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
