The Largest Airports In The World By Size

Saudi Arabia's King Fahd International Airport is the largest airport in the world by a significant margin, covering an expansive 776 square kilometers of land. In comparison, Denver International Airport (DEN), the largest in the United States and second largest in the world, encompasses 137.8 km². Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) in Malaysia, the world's third largest airport, measures 100 km².

15 Largest Airports In The World By Size

1. King Fahd International Airport (DMM) - 776 km²

Location: Dammam, Saudi Arabia

King Fahd International Airport (KFIA), located in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, is the largest in the world by size and the third-largest airport in the kingdom by passenger volume. Positioned 31 kilometers northwest of Dammam, it was inaugurated in 1999 and named after former King Fahd ibn Abdulaziz. The airport was originally used as a US airbase during the Gulf War and later transitioned to commercial use. KFIA handles over 10 million passengers annually across two 4-kilometer runways and three terminal buildings, including a Passenger Terminal for mainstream travelers, an Aramco Terminal for Saudi Aramco Aviation, and a Royal Terminal for the Saudi royal family. The busiest route is to Dubai, with 70 weekly flights. The airport became part of the Dammam Airports Company (DACO) in 2017, furthering Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. Commercial flights were briefly suspended in 2020 due to COVID-19 but resumed in 2021.

2. Denver International Airport (DEN) - 137.8 km²

Location: Denver, Colorado, United States

Denver International Airport (DEN), located in the Western United States and serving the Denver, Colorado area, is notable for its vast size, covering 33,531 acres, making it the largest airport in the Western Hemisphere by land area and the second largest globally. Opened in 1995, DEN has grown significantly, with 82,358,744 passengers served in 2024 alone, marking a new record. It operates the longest public use runway in North America and is a major hub for United Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and Southwest Airlines, the latter of which has rapidly expanded since 2006. Denver International supports over 215 destinations worldwide and is recognized for its extensive employment, housing over 40,000 workers, making it Colorado's largest employer. The airport has undergone significant expansions and renovations, including major terminal improvements and additional gates, increasing its capacity and efficiency in handling passenger traffic, which consistently ranks it among the top busiest airports globally.

3. Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) - 100 km²

Location: Selangor, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), the primary airport serving Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is located in the Sepang District, approximately 45 km from the city center. As the largest airport in Malaysia, KLIA is a major hub and was recognized as the most connected low-cost mega hub globally in 2024 by OAG. It ranks 35th worldwide in passenger traffic, handling 47.2 million passengers in 2023. The airport sits on a 100 square kilometer site and includes three runways and advanced facilities capable of accommodating significant aircraft movements and cargo loads. KLIA operates as a critical base for Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and several other international carriers, supporting over 819,026 aircraft movements annually. It has undergone extensive development since its inauguration in 1998, with future expansions planned to increase its capacity significantly. Despite challenges like the Asian financial crisis and various global health crises, KLIA continues to grow and serve as a key transit point in Southeast Asia.

4. Istanbul Airport (IST) - 76.5 km²

Location: Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul Airport, located in the Arnavutkoy district on the European side of Istanbul, Turkey, is the main international gateway to the city and the largest airport in Turkey. Since its full operation began on April 6, 2019, following the transfer of all commercial flights from Ataturk Airport, Istanbul Airport has emerged as a major hub, positioned as the second busiest airport in both Europe and the Middle East. In 2023, it was the seventh busiest airport in the world, handling over 76 million passengers. The airport covers a massive 19,000 acres and, upon completion of all planned phases by 2027, will boast an annual capacity of 150 million passengers, potentially expanding to 200 million. The airport is known for its significant size and capacity, modern facilities, and status as a hub for Turkish Airlines. It connects to 122 countries and is integral to Turkey's aviation infrastructure.

5. Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) - 69.7 km²

Location: Dallas, Texas, United States

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), located between the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth in Texas, is the second-largest airport by land area in the United States, covering 17,207 acres. As the main international airport serving the North Texas region, it is a major hub for American Airlines. DFW is recognized as the third busiest airport globally by aircraft movements and the second busiest by passenger traffic as of 2022 and 2023. It offers flights to 254 destinations, making it the airport with the most nonstop routes in North America as of April 2023.

DFW was initially planned in 1927 but only realized through joint efforts between Dallas and Fort Worth cities in the late 1960s, with the airport opening in 1974. It features modern facilities, including multiple runways and terminals designed to handle millions of passengers and facilitate easy movement within the airport. DFW also leads in sustainability, being the largest carbon-neutral airport in the world.

6. Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) - 47.8 km²

Location: Dulles, Virginia, United States

Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), located 26 miles west of downtown Washington, D.C., in Virginia, is one of the largest airports by land area in the U.S., covering 13,000 acres. Opened in 1962 and named after John Foster Dulles, the airport features a main terminal designed by Eero Saarinen, which is noted for its architectural beauty. Dulles is a major hub for international travel in the Mid-Atlantic, handling the most international passenger traffic in the region outside of New York. In 2024, Dulles set a record with 27.3 million enplanements, marking it as the busiest airport in the Washington-Baltimore area and ranking 28th in the U.S. It serves over 139 destinations globally, with United Airlines as its primary hub, supporting significant operations by Star Alliance members. Recent expansions include the introduction of AeroTrain to improve passenger movement between terminals and ongoing developments aimed at increasing its capacity and connectivity.

7. Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) - 47 km²

Location: Daxing District, Beijing, China

Beijing Daxing International Airport, one of two international airports serving Beijing, China, is located on the border of Beijing and Langfang, Hebei. Officially opened in September 2019 after nearly five years of construction, costing approximately CN¥80 billion (US$11.4 billion), the airport spans 2,679 hectares (6,620 acres) and features the world's largest single-building airport terminal at 700,000 m². Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects and ADPI, the terminal is known for its starfish shape, which enhances efficiency and minimizes walking distances for passengers.

Daxing serves as a major hub for SkyTeam alliance airlines and some Oneworld members, with four civilian and one military runway. It was built to alleviate congestion at Beijing Capital International Airport and is positioned strategically near several major urban areas, including Tianjin and Hebei. The airport has set high standards in design and functionality, winning multiple awards from Airports Council International for hygiene measures and overall excellence. As it continues to expand, Daxing is expected to handle up to 120-200 million passengers annually, potentially making it the world's busiest airport.

8. Orlando International Airport (MCO) - 46.9 km²

Location: Orlando, Florida, United States

Orlando International Airport (MCO), located 6 miles southeast of downtown Orlando, Florida, is the busiest airport in the state and the seventh busiest in the United States. It occupies 11,605 acres, making it one of the largest commercial airports by land area in the U.S. The airport serves as a major hub for Breeze Airways, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Spirit Airlines, with Southwest being the largest carrier. MCO is a significant international gateway for the Florida region, offering over 850 daily flights across 44 airlines to 135 domestic and international destinations. Originally McCoy Air Force Base, the airport was repurposed for civilian use after its closure in 1975 and retains the MCO code from its military days. It has grown substantially, driven by Orlando's status as a major tourist destination, further highlighted by its proximity to Walt Disney World and other attractions.

9. George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) - 44.5 km²

Location: Houston, Texas, United States

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston, Texas, serves as the primary international gateway for the Greater Houston area. Opened in 1969 and originally named Houston Intercontinental Airport, it was renamed in 1997 in honor of George H. W. Bush, the 41st U.S. president. The airport is strategically located about 23 miles north of downtown Houston, between major interstates, and has direct access to the Hardy Toll Road.

Spanning 10,000 acres, IAH is one of the largest airports by land area in the U.S. and functions as a significant hub for United Airlines. It facilitates numerous domestic and international flights, making it the busiest in Texas for international traffic and the second busiest overall in the state. The airport has a rich history, initially operating as McCoy Air Force Base before transitioning to commercial use. Over the decades, it has expanded significantly, offering extensive flight services that include major carriers from around the world.

10. Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) - 40 km²

Location: Pudong, Shanghai, China

Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), serving as one of the two main airports for Shanghai, China, covers a vast area of 40 square kilometers (10,000 acres) and is located about 30 km east of the city center. Primarily serving international flights alongside a smaller number of domestic flights, PVG is the main hub for China Eastern Airlines and Shanghai Airlines and a significant hub for Air China and other major airlines. It also functions as a crucial cargo hub for Asia-Pacific, hosting operations for major logistics companies like FedEx, UPS, and DHL.

Since its inauguration on October 1, 1999, Pudong Airport has undergone substantial expansions to enhance its capacity and facilities. The airport originally started with a single runway and has expanded to four operational runways, with a fifth and sixth under construction. Its passenger handling capacity is also set to increase from 60 million to 80 million annually upon the completion of a third terminal and a new satellite terminal. As of 2023, it handled over 54 million passengers, making it the busiest international gateway in mainland China and a significant player in global air traffic.

11. Cairo International Airport (CAI) - 37 km²

Location: Cairo, Egypt

Cairo International Airport (CAI), located in Heliopolis, about 15 kilometers northeast of Cairo's business area, is Egypt's principal international airport and the busiest in Africa. Spanning approximately 37 square kilometers, it serves as the main hub for EgyptAir and Nile Air, among other airlines. The airport has significant historical roots, initially established during World War II by the United States Army Air Forces as John Payne Field Air Force Base. It functioned as a critical air transport command hub connecting to multiple global destinations.

After the war, the facility was handed over to the Civil Aviation Authority and transformed into Cairo International Airport in 1963, replacing the older Heliopolis Airport. Managed by the Egyptian Holding Company for Airports and Air Navigation, Cairo International has seen various expansions, including the development of Terminal 1, which was inaugurated in 1963 by President Gamal Abdel Nasser. This terminal has undergone several renovations to enhance passenger experience and capacity, accommodating a growing number of international flights and carriers. The airport also features the "Airport City Concept," which includes shopping and entertainment facilities for travelers and visitors.

12. Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) - 32.4 km²

Location: Bangkok, Thailand

Suvarnabhumi Airport, located in Bangkok, Thailand, is a major international hub covering an area of 3,240 hectares (8,000 acres). It is the primary airport for Bangkok and serves as a vital connection point in Southeast Asia. Officially opened on September 28, 2006, it has become the busiest airport in Thailand and a significant air cargo hub. The airport, whose name means "land of gold," operates as the main hub for Thai Airways International and Bangkok Airways and serves as a base for Thai VietJet Air and Thai AirAsia.

The terminal, designed by Helmut Jahn, features the world's fourth largest single-building airport terminal, highlighted by its contemporary design and the world’s tallest free-standing control tower from 2006 to 2014. The airport was constructed on what was known as Cobra Swamp, and it features advanced facilities that include a vast array of passenger services, extensive cargo handling capabilities, and a designated Airport Free Zone aimed at boosting logistics and trade.

Suvarnabhumi Airport is not only a key aviation hub but also a popular location for social media users and plays a significant role in Thailand’s tourism and economy. It has plans for future expansion to enhance capacity and facilities, maintaining its status as a crucial gateway to Asia and beyond.

13. Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) - 32.3 km²

Location: Roissy-en-France, France

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, also known as Roissy Airport, is the largest international airport in France and one of the biggest in Europe, covering 32.38 square kilometers. Located in Roissy-en-France, 23 km northeast of Paris, it was inaugurated in 1974 and named after French President Charles de Gaulle. As a major hub, it serves as the principal base for Air France and hosts other major carriers across three alliances. In 2024, CDG handled 70.29 million passengers and 460,916 aircraft movements, making it the ninth busiest airport globally and the busiest in the European Union. It also leads Europe in cargo traffic, managing over 2.1 million tonnes in 2019. The airport is known for its extensive facilities spread across three terminals, with Terminal 3 hosting low-cost airlines. Notable for its large area, CDG continues to play a crucial role in global and European air traffic.

14. Adolfo Suarez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) - 30.5 km²

Location: Madrid, Spain

Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, the primary international airport serving Madrid, Spain, spans 3,050 hectares (7,500 acres), making it the second-largest airport in Europe by area after Paris Charles de Gaulle. Established in 1931, it is situated within close proximity to Madrid's financial district and historic center. Named after Adolfo Suárez, Spain’s first post-Franco Prime Minister, the airport is a crucial hub linking Europe to Latin America and handled 61.8 million passengers in 2019, ranking as the fifth busiest in Europe.

Madrid-Barajas features four runways and five passenger terminals, facilitating extensive domestic and international flights. It serves as the primary base for Iberia and Air Europa, significantly influencing its traffic, with Iberia accounting for over 40% of its activity. The airport's modern Terminal 4, inaugurated in 2006, is noted for its architectural design aimed at enhancing passenger experience through natural lighting and efficient services.

Historically, Barajas has undergone significant expansions, including new terminals and runways in the 2000s to accommodate growing passenger numbers and larger aircraft like the Airbus A380. Recent developments include plans to expand capacity to 80 million passengers annually by 2026, reflecting its ongoing role as a key aviation hub in Europe.

15. Dubai International Airport (DXB) - 29 km²

Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai International Airport (DXB), located in the Al Garhoud district of Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is the primary international airport serving Dubai. As of 2024, it ranks as the second busiest airport in the world by passenger traffic and maintains its status as the busiest for international passengers. The airport spans 2,900 hectares (7,200 acres) and includes the world's largest terminal by floor space, Terminal 3. DXB is a major hub for Emirates Airlines, which handles 51% of passenger traffic and is crucial for cargo, housing regional hubs for major couriers like FedEx, UPS, and DHL.

The airport's origins trace back to 1937 when it served as a base for flying boats before transitioning to a commercial airport. The construction was initiated in 1959 by Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. Officially opening in 1960, the airport has undergone significant expansions, including the introduction of the world's largest solar energy system in an airport in 2019.

Emirates exclusively operates from Terminal 3, significantly contributing to the airport's operations alongside Flydubai. In 2023, DXB handled 87 million passengers and 1.81 million tonnes of cargo and saw 416,405 aircraft movements. Plans for future growth include closing DXB after the expansion of Al Maktoum Airport, which will take over its operations.