DUBAI: Dubai International Airport has once again claimed the global crown for the highest international passenger traffic, retaining its top spot for the year 2024, according to new data from Airports Council International (ACI) World.
While Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport kept its overall top ranking based on total passenger volume, Dubai held strong at No. 2 globally and remained the undisputed leader in international travel — a position it has consistently maintained for over a decade.
According to ACI World’s preliminary 2024 report, global passenger traffic reached nearly 9.5 billion, marking a 9% increase from 2023 and a 3.8% gain over pre-pandemic (2019) levels. The top 10 busiest airports together handled 855 million passengers, representing 9% of total global traffic.
The other leading airports in the top five included Dallas Fort Worth International, London Heathrow, and Tokyo Haneda, reflecting a strong rebound in international and domestic air travel across major hubs.
Air cargo volumes also showed growth, reaching over 124 million metric tonnes, an 8.4% year-on-year rise and a 3.9% increase over 2019 levels.
ACI World Director-General Justin Erbacci praised the resilience of the aviation sector, noting that the busiest airports continue to serve as critical global connectors for trade, commerce, and tourism. “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,” he said.
Dubai Airport’s continued dominance in international traffic highlights its strategic importance as a global travel hub, connecting East and West through a modern, high-capacity infrastructure.
