The United States boasts some of the largest airports in the world, known not only for their passenger traffic but also for their expansive land areas. These airports have the capacity to handle a significant volume of flights and potential for future growth. The following overview highlights the ten largest airports in the country based on their land area, showcasing their unique attributes and operational capabilities.
10. Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)
Covering an area of 7.3 square miles (19 square kilometers), Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport is Michigan’s largest airport. It serves as a hub for Delta Air Lines and Spirit Airlines, previously hosting Northwest Airlines. The airport operates six runways, accommodating aircraft such as the Airbus A350 and previously the Boeing 747-400. DTW features two main passenger terminals with a combined total of 150 gates, including the Edward H. McNamara Terminal, notable for its long concourse.
9. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
Located in New York, JFK spans 8 square miles (21 square kilometers) and functions as the primary international gateway to the United States. The airport is equipped with four runways, including the 14,511-foot (4,423 meters) Runway 13R/31L, which ranks as the third-longest in the nation. JFK houses five terminals with a total of 130 gates and serves as a hub for several airlines, including American Airlines and Delta Air Lines.
8. San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
San Francisco International Airport is the largest airport in California, covering 8.1 square miles (21.07 square kilometers). It serves as a major hub for United Airlines, particularly for flights to Asia. SFO operates four intersecting runways and offers a total of 121 gates across four terminals. The airport is renowned for its unique parallel approach procedures, although it faces operational restrictions during adverse weather conditions.
7. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
With an area of 11.9 square miles (30.9 square kilometers), Chicago O’Hare is one of the busiest airports globally. It is a significant hub for American Airlines and United Airlines. The airport features eight runways, the highest number of any airport worldwide, and hosts four terminals with a total of 216 gates. O’Hare’s extensive runway network allows it to accommodate a vast range of flight operations.
6. Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
Salt Lake City International Airport covers 11.96 square miles (31 square kilometers) and serves as Utah’s busiest airport. It primarily functions as a hub for Delta Air Lines. The airport features four runways, with three in regular commercial operation and one reserved for smaller aircraft. SLC is currently expanding its facilities, with additional gates planned to open in late 2026.
5. George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
Located in Houston, Texas, George Bush Intercontinental Airport spans 15.4 square miles (40 square kilometers). It serves as a hub for United Airlines and ranks as the second-busiest airport in Texas. IAH has five runways and five terminals, offering a total of 121 gates. The airport primarily functions as a hub for flights to Latin America.
4. Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
Washington Dulles International Airport covers 20 square miles (52 square kilometers) and serves as the secondary transatlantic hub for United Airlines. It features four runways with a fifth under planning and provides access to 139 gates across its main terminal and two midfield buildings. Despite its size, Dulles often competes with the smaller Ronald Reagan National Airport for passenger preference due to proximity to Washington, D.C.
3. Orlando International Airport (MCO)
As the busiest airport in Florida, Orlando International Airport spans 20.8 square miles (54 square kilometers). While it hosts operations for several budget airlines, it lacks a major hub from any of the three largest U.S. airlines. MCO features four parallel runways and several terminals, with a total of 116 gates. The airport predominantly caters to vacation travelers, making it a critical gateway for tourism in Florida.
2. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport is the second-busiest airport in the world by passenger numbers, covering an impressive 26.6 square miles (69 square kilometers). It serves as the primary hub for American Airlines and features seven runways, enabling extensive global connectivity. DFW comprises six terminals with a total of 193 gates. The airport is notable for its operational efficiency, receiving flights from over 40 airlines.
1. Denver International Airport (DEN)
Claiming the title of the largest airport in the United States, Denver International Airport spans a vast 52 square miles (135 square kilometers). It serves as a significant hub for United Airlines and has grown rapidly in recent years. The airport features six runways arranged in a unique pinwheel layout, facilitating timely departures and arrivals. Denver’s Jeppesen Terminal, along with three midfield concourses, houses a total of 169 gates, making it a critical hub in the U.S. air travel network.
These ten airports exemplify the diverse landscape of air travel in the United States, each contributing significantly to both regional and international connectivity. Their expansive facilities and operational capabilities position them as key players in the global aviation sector.
