Top 10 Busiest Global Airports in 2025: Indian Airport Secures a Spot

The aviation sector is witnessing a remarkable resurgence as international travel regains momentum. With rapid advancements in infrastructure and an increasing number of passengers, global airports have become pivotal in facilitating seamless connectivity. According to projections by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), global passenger numbers are expected to reach 5.2 billion by 2025, a 6.7% increase from 2024.

This remarkable growth has led to shifts in the rankings of the busiest global airports based on available seating capacity. Notably, Dubai International Airport (DXB) has reclaimed the top spot, surpassing Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL). The rankings are based on data provided by OAG, an aviation analytics company, which analyzed the seating capacities of airports worldwide.

Dubai International Airport (DXB) Tops the List

For the year 2025, Dubai International Airport (DXB) has emerged as the world’s busiest airport, with a staggering 4.78 million available seats. This marks a significant milestone for Dubai, further strengthening its position as a global travel hub. The airport has seen consistent growth in both international and domestic travel, making it the most preferred transit point for travelers across continents.

Atlanta’s Decline: Second Busiest Airport

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), which has long held the title of the busiest airport globally, has now been overtaken by DXB. ATL recorded 4.56 million seats, reflecting a 2% increase in capacity compared to 2024. Despite this, its strategic location in the United States continues to make it a crucial hub for domestic and international travelers.

Asian Airports Witness a Surge

Asia’s aviation sector is experiencing significant growth, with Tokyo International Airport (Haneda – HND), Shanghai Pudong (PVG), and Delhi (DEL) securing top spots in the rankings.

Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) Jumps to Fourth Place

Shanghai Pudong Airport has made an impressive leap from the 6th position in 2024 to 4th place in 2025, boasting 3.99 million available seats. This is a clear indicator of China’s growing aviation infrastructure and international connectivity.

Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) Breaks Into the Top 10

A remarkable milestone for India, Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) has secured the 8th position, surpassing Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN).** With 3.61 million seats, Delhi continues to emerge as one of the fastest-growing global aviation hubs, reflecting the increasing air travel demand in India.

Europe’s Strong Presence in the Rankings

London Heathrow Airport (LHR) – Europe’s Busiest Airport

London Heathrow Airport (LHR) has re-established itself as Europe’s busiest airport, ranking 5th globally with 3.85 million seats. Heathrow remains a key gateway for transatlantic travel, serving as a crucial hub for international flights.

Istanbul Airport (IST) in the Top 10

Istanbul Airport (IST), Turkey, has cemented its place in the top 10 busiest airports list, ranking 7th with 3.61 million seats. The airport has played a vital role in connecting Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, contributing to its steady rise in passenger traffic.

China’s Aviation Sector: Mixed Performance

China has witnessed a mixed performance in its airport rankings:

• Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) has made a comeback into the top 10 list, securing the 10th position with 3.53 million seats.
• Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN), however, has dropped significantly due to a 13% decline in capacity, placing it at 9th position in 2025.

Complete List of the Top 10 Busiest Airports in 2025