INTERNATIONAL. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport maintained its position as the world’s busiest airport in 2023, according to newly published data from Airports Council International (ACI).
Dubai International Airport (86.99 million, +31.7% year-on-year) took second spot from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (81.75 million, +11.4%), now in the third spot.
Heathrow (79.1 million, +28.5%) climbed four places to number four, while Tokyo Haneda International Airport (78.7 million, +55%) recorded the most notable improvement, jumping from 16th to fifth position.
The preliminary figures highlight significant shifts brought about by the resumption of international air travel, with global passenger traffic reaching nearly 8.5 billion, representing a notable recovery of 93.8% of 2019 levels.
The top ten airports for total passenger traffic – representing 10% of global traffic – saw a year-on-year increase of +19.8%, up +0.7% on their 2019 results.
The data also shows a remarkable rebound in international traffic recovery, which was almost close to that of domestic traffic, reflecting its important role in fuelling the industry’s recovery and growth.
ACI noted that the upsurge of travellers at international airports (+36.5% growth rate, reaching 90.4% of 2019 level) has been key to bolstering the recovery of hubs reliant on this segment, impacting the busiest airport ranking.
ACI World Director General Luis Felipe de Oliveira said: “Global air travel in 2023 was chiefly fuelled by the international segment, propelled by several factors. Among these were the anticipated benefits from China’s reopening and a growing inclination towards travel despite macroeconomic conditions.
“While perennial leaders from the US continue to dominate the top ten busiest airports for passengers, notably Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport retaining its number one position, there are notable shifts.”
Five US airports made it to the top ten list for total passenger traffic, including Denver International (77.8 million, +12.3%) in sixth spot; Los Angeles International in eighth (75.05 million, +13.8%); and ninth place Chicago O’Hare (73.8 million, +8.1%).
Oliveira added: “Dubai International Airport jumped to second rank for the first time, while Tokyo Haneda International Airport witnessed a remarkable ascent from 16th position in 2022 to fifth in 2023. Additionally, the unwavering strength of Istanbul and New Delhi airports keep them in top ranks, marking significant progress over 2019.”
The 2023 figures show that flight movements hit nearly 95 million, up by +11.8% from the previous year, representing a recovery of 92.7% of pre-pandemic levels.
The ten busiest airports represent over 6% of global traffic (six million movements), a rise of +7.4% from their 2022 results, reaching 96.4% of 2019 figures.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is at the top, followed by Chicago O’Hare Airport in second, and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport in third.
Oliveira concluded: “The rankings highlight the crucial role these transportation hubs play in global connectivity, commerce and economic development. Airports continue to demonstrate their resilience and adaptability amidst the challenges posed by the ever-evolving landscape of global travel. ACI World remains dedicated to advocating for airports worldwide throughout pivotal stages of policy formulation and to advancing the pursuit of airport excellence.”
Airport rankings are based on a compilation of 2023 global data from 2,600 airports across more than 180 countries and territories. ✈
