Montreal Dubai International Airport has maintained its position as the world’s busiest airport in terms of international passenger traffic for 2024, according to a report released on Monday by Airports Council International (ACI) World.
Preliminary figures indicate that the 2024 global total passengers are close to 9.5 billion representing an increase of 9 percent from 2023 or a gain of 3.8 percent from pre-pandemic levels (2019).
The top 10 busiest airports, representing 9 percent of global traffic (855 million passengers), witnessed a gain of 8.8 percent from 2023 and a gain of 8.4 percent vis-à-vis their 2019 results (789 million pax in 2019).
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport defends its top position, followed by Dubai International Airport and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.
The biggest jump in the Top 10 rankings was recorded for Shanghai Pudong International Airport, going from 21st position in 2023 to the 10th spot in 2024. The jump was fueled by expanded visa policies, the resumption and expansion of international flights, operational enhancements, and the recovery of the Asia-Pacific region, particularly China.
The unwavering strength of Istanbul Airport and New Delhi International Airport kept them in top ranks of seventh and ninth respectively, marking significant progress over 2019. Both airports have been thriving due to airline expansion, infrastructure growth, and enhanced global connectivity.
Air cargo volumes are estimated to have increased by 8.4 percent year-over-year (+3.9 percent versus 2019) to over 124 million metric tonnes in 2024.
ACI World Director-General Justin Erbacci said, “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.”
Milestone that goes beyond numbers: CEO
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, has affirmed that Dubai International Airport’s continued position as the world’s busiest hub for international passengers for the eleventh consecutive year is a milestone that goes beyond numbers, embodying Dubai’s exceptional status as a leading global destination for tourism, trade, business, and residency.
Commenting on the latest report by Airports Council International, Griffiths said in Dubai on Tuesday, “Despite the ongoing challenges facing the aviation sector each year, some facts remain unchanged. With 92.3 million passengers in 2024, we continue to maintain our lead for over a decade, setting a new global benchmark for international passenger traffic through a single airport.”
He credited the achievement to collaboration and the exceptional efforts made to shape an outstanding travel experience, one that reflects Dubai’s unique spirit and status as a world-class city, according to Emirates News Agency (WAM).
Griffiths added that the focus now shifts to the future, noting that development works have already commenced at Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International Airport, which will enable increased capacity and set new standards in airport design and the overall travel experience.
