Dubai International Airport has retained its position as the world’s busiest airport in terms of international passenger traffic for 2024, according to a recent report by Airports Council International (ACI) World.
The preliminary figures suggest that global passenger numbers for 2024 are approaching 9.5 billion, marking a 9 percent increase compared to 2023, and a 3.8 percent rise from pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
The top 10 busiest airports, which account for 9 percent of global traffic (855 million passengers), saw an 8.8 percent increase from 2023 and an 8.4 percent growth compared to their 2019 traffic figures (789 million passengers).
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has maintained its position at the top, followed by Dubai International Airport and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.
In addition, air cargo volumes are expected to have risen by 8.4 percent year-over-year, representing a 3.9 percent increase over 2019, with total cargo exceeding 124 million metric tonnes in 2024.
ACI World Director-General Justin Erbacci stated, “Amid global challenges, the resilience of the world’s busiest airports shines. These hubs are vital arteries of trade, commerce, and connectivity. As air travel grows, ACI World stands ready to support its members, ensuring the smooth flow of people and goods that drive global economic, social, and cultural progress.”
