Today we are going to explore the wonders of United States airports.
Airports are large and often busy places and knowing more about the biggest airports in the world can help you be better prepared for what to expect — whether that means understanding the size and scope of Denver’s airport terminal or the sheer volume of people flying through Atlanta.
This post looks at some of the biggest and busiest airports in the United States, an airport guide for food and services, as well as some tips to help you really maximize your time in them. So come along as we examine each unique charm.
And remember, having an iRoamly USA travel eSIM with its variety of fast packages can be a great companion to keep you connected and share your travel moments seamlessly.
What Is the Largest Airport in the United States?
There are many ways to measure an airport. You can consider the total area of the airport or the number of passengers.
In the United States, you could make a case for several airports being the “biggest,” depending on which metric you’re using. If it’s by number of passengers, chances are Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) takes the title most years.
But land size? Well no U.S. airport competes with Denver International Airport (DEN).
The Denver International Airport is huge. It covers 33,531 acres, making it nearly 50 square miles of airport! Located in Colorado, DEN isn’t just colossal either. It’s also one of a kind.
The building’s unusual design features the famous tent-shaped roof that’s said to mimic the nearby snow-covered Rockies. And fun fact: It even has a time capsule buried somewhere on the property, scheduled to be opened in 2094.
All this makes it more than just an airport—it’s practically a little city!
Top 10 Largest Airports in the U.S. by Land Area
Denver International Airport (DEN) – Colorado
Denver International Airport is huge. It spans some 33,531 acres. That’s almost a small town all devoted to planes! The jagged roof of the main terminal is meant to look like the Rockies.
And isn’t this cool? There’s even a time capsule supposedly buried on the grounds that’s scheduled to be dug up in 2094.
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) – Texas
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport — DFW for short — services more than just Texas. The airport occupies roughly 17,207 acres and acts as a major hub between the East and West Coasts.
It even has its own ZIP code and post office! That’s how you know it’s big.
Orlando International Airport (MCO) – Florida
Orlando International Airport is full of warmth and vitality. It covers approximately 13,302 acres and serves as the main gateway to the United States' top theme park, Disney World, as well as other local attractions.
Its divided terminals are user-friendly, it’s landmark terminal building is an attraction in and of itself, welcoming millions of visitors on an annual basis.
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) – Virginia
Washington Dulles International Airport– it’s not just an airport, but also an architectural landmark.
This gargantuan complex covers 12,000 acres while simultaneously displaying grace and finesse thanks to architect Eero Saarinen’s groundbreaking vision.
It’s the primary airport serving the capital area, with direct flights to many worldwide locations.
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) – Texas
At 10,000 acres in size, Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport is very efficient and passenger-friendly.
This is one of the key hubs in the South — whether you’re taking a connecting flight or heading into Houston, it’s easy to transfer on to your next destination.
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) – Utah
Nestled in scenic Utah, Salt Lake City International Airport covers 7,700 acres. The facility is particularly admired for its stunning mountain views and provides an easy starting point for some of the best ski resorts in the world.
Located 4 miles west of Downtown Salt Lake City, the airport offers easy access for leisure and business travelers. And with some exciting new changes on the horizon following renovations, your journey is about to get even better.
O’Hare International Airport (ORD) – Illinois
O’Hare International Airport. Transporting over 7,627acres, serves as a critical hub for travelers coming to and from a variety of global destinations.
Noted for its extensive list of destinations, ORD offers modern features sprinkled with older characteristics, from its historic air traffic control tower to its crowded concourses.
It’s a beloved airport for many travelers due it its size and sheer number of connecting flights.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) – California
San Francisco International Airport, AKA SFO (5,207 acres). Not only is it the main airport in Northern California, but it’s also a major hub for global technology and art.
Art is everywhere in this airport, and it’s one of the more eco-friendly airports in the US.
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) – New York
Home to over 4,930 acres and the main connecter to New York’s palpable energy, John F. Kennedy International Airport is recognized around the globe.
It’s the largest hub for international flights at JFK Airport, and travelers can fly almost anywhere from here. The terminals know more than we can imagine, so a trip through any JFK terminal is really just a fraction of a much larger tale.
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) – Michigan
Detroit Metropolitan Airport is located on 4,850 acres and is a major gateway hub to the Midwest.
Based around one very stylish and easy-to-navigate terminal, DTW sees millions pass through it each year. They make for some happy business travelers and vacation goers.
Top 10 Busiest Airports in the U.S. by Passenger Traffic
Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) – Georgia
As the world’s busiest airport, it’s rare to find a quiet moment at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Travelers come by the droves to the ATL on a year-round basis to travel to and from Georgia.
It is a major airport for connecting flights, with passengers heading to destinations for fun, work, and more.
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) – Texas
Located in between Dallas and Fort Worth, DFW is the hub of Texas-sized travel. The airport is the second largest in the US and the tenth in the world in terms of passenger traffic.
It’s giant, efficient, offers numerous services and amenities and is a very popular airport for connecting flights. You can easily find a huge variety of food, shopping, and things to do here to pass the time.
Denver International Airport (DEN) – Colorado
Denver International isn’t just the largest airport in the U.S. by land area. It’s also one of the busiest. With a convenient location smack-dab in the middle of the country, it’s the go-to airport for domestic flights connecting passengers.
Designed by an eccentric architect, with stunning views of the Rockies, DEN is nothing short of an experience in and of itself. It’s basically a mini town. Enjoy your layover or brief stopover in Denver because Denver wants you.
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) – Illinois
Chicago O’Hare International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving millions of passengers a year in its many terminals.
As it is a key hub for domestic and international airlines, ORD is known for its great connections, and you can find just about anything from fine dining to stores with unique and convenient goods to pass the time on your layover.
And its location in Chicago seals the deal, connecting the Midwest with the world.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – California
LAX is a metropolis, mirroring the vibrancy of Los Angeles. With its high passenger volume, it’s also a hub for flights to Asia and the Pacific.
Every terminal will give you a taste of the city’s hustle and bustle, from star-spotting to a good meal for the flight. Busy, buzzy, and sprawling, LAX is just as legendary as the city it shares an acronym with.
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) – North Carolina
Charlotte Douglas International Airport is a major airport hub in the US Southeast. Efficient and friendly with Southern charm, busy CLT is also a very welcoming place.
Flyers love the easygoing vibe, all the food options, and how well-run the airport is. If you’re flying to the East Coast (or beyond), it’s a nice place to connect.
Orlando International Airport (MCO) – Florida
Orlando International Airport is just about as busy as the theme parks that brought you to the city. Central to the state, MCO is a major hub and sees people from all over the entire globe.
And, with plenty of activities and facilities for you while you’re waiting for that connection, it’s no surprise exactly why so many people eventually end up here. This city is a vacation, it’s a business trip, it’s everything.
Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) – Nevada
In a city where everything sparkles, the airport sparkles to match. Harry Reid International Airport bustles with activity as millions of people pass through on their way to enjoy Las Vegas.
Delivering a punch of efficiency and excitement, this airport guarantees that your trip to Vegas is just as fun as being in Vegas. And with slot machines by the gate, LAS Airport commits to the Vegas spirit through and through.
Miami International Airport (MIA) – Florida
Miami International Airport is the primary connection to Latin America and beyond. MIA handles a large volume of travelers, and does it well, much like the city itself.
It has one of the highest profiles as an international gateway in the world, connecting North, Central, and South America. No matter where you’re flying to, Miami International feels like the perfect gateway to sunny Florida.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) – Arizona
Known as America’s Friendliest Airport, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is, despite its frantic pace, efficient and easy to navigate. As the largest airport in Arizona, this is where you’ll also catch the best views of the desert.
There are a lot of passengers in the airport, but you don’t feel like just a number here — the airport is warm and inviting.
What to Expect at the Largest Airports
Stepping foot into one the major airports in the U.S. is like walking into a little town full of all kinds of activities and amenities.
They cover everything to enhance your airport experience, including lounges to expend time in before your flight, ways to get around the massive airport, and, in some cases, hotels for your long layover.
These places are worth a wander and transform that long layover into an exciting break.
Large terminals can be overwhelming, but not if you know how to handle them. Most major airports have apps that include a terminal map and gate information.
Trains, trams, and moving sidewalks are your best friend for speedy travel while in the airport. And don’t be afraid to ask an employee for help; they will typically go out of their way to assist.
If you’re catching a connecting flight, it’s also helpful to fly with one of the safest airlines in America for peace of mind and reliable service.
So, next time you’re in a big airport: sit back and enjoy the ride. Check out the facilities, use your apps wisely, and attend the unusual that each airport has to offer.
These airports are more than just places for layovers. They are destinations in and of themselves.
FAQ
1. Which airport should I choose if I want the best amenities during a layover?
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Denver International Airport (DEN) features lounges, dining, and shopping for travelers.
2. Do U.S. airports offer mobile apps to help navigate terminals?
Many major U.S. airports now have apps with terminal maps and flight info for easy navigation.
3. Which airport offers the smoothest experience for international connections?
MIA is a great airport for connecting to international flights, especially to South America and other destinations.
Conclusion
Whether you’re flying through the vast runways of Denver or navigating the crowds at Atlanta, U.S. airports offer a glimpse into the scale and speed of modern travel.
From the largest by land to the busiest by passengers, each airport plays a unique role in connecting people across the country and around the world.
Understanding these travel hubs can make your journey smoother—and maybe even a little more enjoyable.