Top 10 largest airports in the world

Welcome to the exciting world of air travel! Whether you are a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip, knowing which airports are the largest in the world can be incredibly helpful when it comes to planning your journey. In this article, we will explore the unique features of the top 10 largest airports in the world: King Fahd International (DMM), Denver International (DEN), Dallas/Fort Worth International (DFW), Orlando International (MCO), Washington Dulles International (IAD), Beijing Daxing International (PKX) , George Bush Intercontinental (IAH),  Shanghai Pudong International (PVG), Cairo International (CAI) and Suvarnabhumi International (BKK).

So, fasten your seat belts and get ready for a thrilling ride as we take a closer look at these remarkable airports that help keep our world connected.

Ranking criteria for the top 10 largest airports in the world

When it comes to ranking the world’s largest airports, size and area are certainly important factors to consider. However, it’s worth noting that there are other criteria that can also be used to determine an airport’s ranking, such as passenger traffic, number of runways, and overall infrastructure. 

Related article: WHAT ARE THE BUSIEST AIRPORTS IN THE WORLD? TOP TEN LIST

That being said, in this article, we have focused on the size or area of the airport as the primary criterion for our ranking of the top 10 largest airports in the world. The size of an airport can have a significant impact on its operational capacity and ability to handle a large volume of passengers, as well as the number and size of aircraft that can be accommodated.

To determine the size of an airport, we have looked at the total land area of the airport, including all runways, taxiways, terminals, and other facilities. This information was obtained from the Airport Council International (ACI) and other reliable sources.

List of the top 10 largest airports in the world

King Fahd International (DMM), Dammam, Saudi Arabia, the largest airport in the world

King Fahd International Airport (DMM), located in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, is the largest airport in the world in terms of land area, measuring a staggering 776 square kilometers. The airport was opened in 1999 and has since become an important hub for both domestic and international flights, with over 10 million passengers passing through its doors every year.

One of the notable features of King Fahd International Airport is its extensive infrastructure. The airport has four main passenger terminals, each with its own unique features and amenities.  Saudi Arabia national air carrier Terminal is used for only domestic service. The Main Terminal primarily handles international flights. Royal Terminal serves as a private terminal for VIPs and members of the Saudi royal family. The City Terminal is in downtown Dammam. Passengers can conveniently check-in, obtain their boarding passes, and drop off their luggage 24 hours before departure at the City Terminal. 

In addition to its passenger terminals, King Fahd International Airport also boasts a number of other facilities, including a massive cargo terminal, multiple maintenance and repair facilities, and a state-of-the-art air traffic control tower. The airport also has two parallel runways that are over 4 kilometers long, capable of accommodating even the largest commercial aircraft in operation today.

When it comes to amenities, King Fahd International Airport does not disappoint. The airport has a wide range of shops, restaurants, and other services available to passengers, including duty-free shopping, currency exchange, and prayer rooms. The airport also has several lounges located on its premises, providing convenient long-stay for travelers. The prominent ones are Al Furssan Longue, Saudia Al-Fursan Golden Lounge  and Al Noor Lounge, 

Denver International (DEN), Denver, the United States

Denver International Airport (DEN), located in Denver, United States, is the second largest airport in the world in terms of land area, measuring an impressive 135.7 square kilometers. The airport, which opened in 1995, is a major hub for both domestic and international flights, serving over 64 million passengers each year.

One of the most notable features of Denver International Airport is its unique design and architecture. The airport’s main terminal, known as the Jeppesen Terminal, is shaped like a tent, with a massive roof that spans over 1.5 kilometers in length. The terminal also features a number of unique art installations and exhibits, making it a popular destination for visitors and locals alike.

In addition to its distinctive architecture, Denver International Airport also boasts an impressive array of facilities and amenities. The airport has three main concourses, each with its own selection of shops, restaurants, and other services. There are also a number of lounges and other premium amenities available to travelers, including a pet relief area, a children’s play area, and even a yoga studio.

When it comes to transportation, Denver International Airport has a number of options available to passengers. The airport is served by a light rail system that provides convenient access to downtown Denver and other destinations throughout the region. There are also a number of rental car agencies and taxi services available at the airport.

Dallas/Fort Worth International (DFW), Dallas, TX, the United States

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), located in Dallas, Texas, United States, is the third largest airport in the world by land area, measuring 69.6 square kilometers. The airport, which opened in 1974, is a major hub for both domestic and international flights, serving over 75 million passengers each year.

One of the key features of Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport is its extensive network of terminals and concourses. The airport has five main terminals, each with its own selection of shops, restaurants, and other services. There are also a number of lounges and premium amenities available to passengers, including a spa, a yoga studio, and a number of VIP lounges.

In addition to its extensive facilities, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport is also known for its excellent transportation options. The airport has its own train station, which provides convenient access to downtown Dallas and other destinations throughout the region. There are also a number of rental car agencies and taxi services available at the airport.

Orlando International (MCO), Orlando, FL, the United States

Orlando International Airport (MCO), located in Orlando, Florida, United States, is the fourth largest airport in the world by land area, measuring 53.8 square kilometers. The airport, which opened in 1981, is a major hub for both domestic and international flights, serving over 50 million passengers each year.

One of the most notable features of Orlando International Airport is its extensive selection of shops, restaurants, and other amenities. The airport has a wide variety of dining options, ranging from fast food to gourmet cuisine, as well as an impressive selection of retail stores and other services. There are also a number of lounges and premium amenities available to passengers, including a spa, a children’s play area, and a number of VIP lounges.

In addition to its impressive facilities, Orlando International Airport is also known for its convenient transportation options. The airport is served by a number of rental car agencies, taxi services, and a train station that provides easy access to downtown Orlando and other destinations throughout the region.

Washington Dulles International (IAD), Washington D.C., the United States

Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), located in Washington D.C., United States, is the fifth largest airport in the world by land area, measuring 48.6 square kilometers. The airport, which opened in 1962, is a major hub for both domestic and international flights, serving over 25 million passengers each year.

One of the key features of Washington Dulles International Airport is its distinctive infrastructure. The airport is known for its iconic main terminal, which features a unique design that includes a series of mobile lounges that transport passengers to and from their gates. The airport also has a number of other terminals and concourses, each with its own selection of shops, restaurants, and other services.

In addition to its distinctive design, Washington Dulles International Airport is also known for its extensive selection of amenities. The airport has a wide variety of dining options, ranging from fast food to gourmet cuisine, as well as an impressive selection of retail stores and other services. There are also a number of lounges and premium amenities available to passengers, including a spa, a fitness center, and a number of VIP lounges.

In terms of transportation, Washington Dulles International Airport is served by a number of rental car agencies, taxi services, and a train station that provides easy access to downtown Washington D.C. and other destinations throughout the region.

Beijing Daxing International (PKX), Beijing, China

Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX), located in Beijing, China, is the sixth largest airport in the world by land area, measuring 46.6 square kilometers. The airport, which opened in 2019, is a major hub for both domestic and international flights, serving over 10 millions of passengers each year.

One of the most notable features of Beijing Daxing International Airport is its impressive infrastructure. The airport is known for its unique design, which includes a sprawling terminal building shaped like a starfish. The terminal is one of the largest in the world, covering over 700,000 square meters and featuring a number of cutting-edge technologies and amenities.

In addition to its impressive design, Beijing Daxing International Airport also has a wide variety of amenities and services available to passengers. The airport has a diverse selection of dining options, ranging from local Chinese cuisine to international favorites, as well as an extensive selection of shops and other services. There are also a number of lounges and premium amenities available to passengers, including a spa, a children’s play area, and a number of VIP lounges.

In terms of transportation, Beijing Daxing International Airport is served by a number of different options, including high-speed trains, buses, taxis, and rental cars. The airport’s transportation hub is located in the basement of the terminal building, making it easy for passengers to access their preferred mode of transportation.

George Bush Intercontinental (IAH), Houston, TX, the United States

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), located in Houston, Texas, is the 7th largest airport in the world by land area, covering 44.5 square kilometers. The airport, which is named after the 41st President of the United States, serves as a major hub for United Airlines and offers flights to destinations across the United States and around the world.

One of the notable features of George Bush Intercontinental Airport is its impressive infrastructure. The airport has five terminals, each of which is equipped with a wide variety of amenities and services for passengers. The terminals feature a diverse selection of restaurants and cafes, as well as numerous shops and boutiques selling everything from souvenirs to high-end fashion.

In addition to its impressive amenities, George Bush Intercontinental Airport is also known for its efficient and convenient transportation options. The airport is easily accessible by car and public transportation, and there are numerous parking options available for those who choose to drive. The airport also features a state-of-the-art automated people mover system, which provides quick and easy access between the different terminals.

For passengers who are looking to relax and unwind before their flight, George Bush Intercontinental Airport offers a number of lounges and other premium amenities. The airport has several VIP lounges, including United Club and American Airlines Admirals Club, which provide a quiet and comfortable space to work or relax before boarding.

Shanghai Pudong International (PVG), Shanghai, China

Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) is the primary international airport serving Shanghai, China. It covers an area of 39.9 square kilometers and is the 8th largest airport in the world by land area. The airport is a major hub for both domestic and international flights, serving over 76 million passengers in 2019.

One of the key features of Shanghai Pudong International Airport is its modern and impressive infrastructure. The airport has two main terminals, which are connected by a shuttle train, and each terminal is equipped with a wide range of amenities and services for passengers. The terminals feature a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops selling everything from souvenirs to luxury goods.

In addition to its impressive amenities, Shanghai Pudong International Airport also offers a number of premium facilities for travelers who are looking for a more comfortable and convenient travel experience. The airport has several VIP lounges, including the No.77 China Eastern Plaza Premium Lounge and the First Class Lounge of Shanghai Airlines, which offer a quiet and comfortable space to work or relax before boarding.

Shanghai Pudong International Airport also features a range of transportation options to make getting to and from the airport easy and convenient. Passengers can choose from a variety of options, including taxis, buses, and the high-speed Maglev train, which connects the airport to downtown Shanghai in just over 7 minutes.

Cairo International (CAI), Cairo, Egypt

Cairo International Airport (CAI) is the primary airport serving Cairo, Egypt, and is the 9th largest airport in the world by land area, covering 36.3 square kilometers. The airport is a hub for EgyptAir, and serves as a major gateway for travelers to and from Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.

Cairo International Airport has three terminals, with Terminal 3 being the newest and largest, opened in 2009. The airport has a range of facilities and services for passengers, including a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops selling souvenirs, gifts, and other items. There are also lounges available for passengers who want to relax or work before their flight.

In terms of transportation, Cairo International Airport is well-connected to the city center and other destinations in Egypt. Passengers can take taxis or buses to reach their destinations, or they can use the Cairo Metro, which has a station at the airport. Additionally, the airport has its own railway station, which connects to other cities in Egypt.

One of the unique features of Cairo International Airport is its historical and cultural significance. The airport is located near the ancient city of Memphis and the Great Pyramids of Giza, making it an important tourist destination for those interested in Egypt’s rich history and culture.

Suvarnabhumi International (BKK), Bangkok, Thailand

Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) is located in Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, and is the 10th largest airport in the world by land area, covering 32.4 square kilometers. The airport is the main international gateway to Thailand and serves as a hub for Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways.

Suvarnabhumi International Airport is a modern and well-equipped airport, with a wide range of facilities and amenities for passengers. The airport has three main terminals, with Terminal 2 being the largest and newest, opened in 2021. Each terminal has a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops selling everything from souvenirs to luxury goods.

In addition to the standard airport amenities, Suvarnabhumi International Airport also has a number of unique features. For example, the airport has a rooftop garden, which provides a peaceful oasis for passengers to relax in between flights. There is also a cultural center showcasing Thailand’s rich heritage and culture, as well as an aviation museum.

Transportation to and from Suvarnabhumi International Airport is convenient and efficient, with a range of options available. Passengers can take taxis, buses, or the Airport Rail Link, which provides a direct connection to Bangkok’s city center. The airport also has its own car rental services, making it easy for visitors to explore Thailand on their own.

Summary of ‘the top 10 largest airports in the world’

The top 10 largest airports in the world are 

1. King Fahd International (DMM), Dammam, Saudi Arabia, 776 sq. km 
2. Denver International (DEN), Denver, the United States ,135.7 sq. km
3. Dallas/Fort Worth International (DFW), Dallas, TX, the United States, 69.6 sq. km
4. Orlando International (MCO), Orlando, FL, the United States, 53.8 sq. km
5. Washington Dulles International (IAD), Washington D.C., the United States, 48.6 sq. km
6. Beijing Daxing International (PKX), Beijing, China, 46.6 sq. km
7. George Bush Intercontinental (IAH), Houston, TX, the United States, 44.5 sq. km
8. Shanghai Pudong International (PVG), Shanghai, China, 39.9 sq. km
9. Cairo International (CAI), Cairo, Egypt, 36.3 sq. km
10. Suvarnabhumi International (BKK), Bangkok, Thailand, 32.4 sq. km

Whether you’re planning your next big adventure or simply dreaming of your next vacation, take comfort in knowing that these top 10 largest airports in the world are here to help make your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible.