As the global aviation sector continues its transformation in the post-pandemic era, data published by Airports Council International (ACI) World for 2024 signals major shifts across the industry. While some airports managed to maintain their positions in the rankings of the world’s busiest, new players quietly rising to the top also drew attention.
ACI World has revealed its 2024 list of the “World’s Busiest Airports.” The initial findings suggest that recovery in the sector is not only reflected in numbers but is also reshaping global dynamics. Although an American giant still leads the list, a strong push from Asia has influenced the rankings considerably.
Atlanta Still on Top, But Asia Takes the Spotlight
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport retained its title as the busiest airport in 2024. However, the real standout was Shanghai Pudong International Airport, which made a remarkable leap from 21st to 10th place. Behind this jump lie China’s relaxed visa policies, an increase in international flights, and significant investments in operational efficiency.
Istanbul and Delhi Continue Their Climb
There was a notable development for Turkey as well. Istanbul Airport has solidified its upper-tier position thanks to its strong international connectivity, increasing passenger capacity, and expanding airline network. Similarly, Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi is becoming a permanent fixture on the list as it evolves into a regional hub.
Justin Erbacci, Director General of ACI World, highlighted that this transformation goes beyond mere numbers:
“Amid global challenges, the resilience shown by airports is commendable. These hubs do not merely transport passengers; they are vital arteries of economic, social, and cultural flow.”
Passenger Numbers Are Growing – But So Are the Risks
In 2024, global passenger numbers reached approximately 9.5 billion. This represents a 9% increase compared to 2023, and a 3.8% rise over pre-pandemic levels in 2019. However, this growth may be clouded by issues such as supply chain disruptions, delays in aircraft production, and geopolitical tensions.
Forecasts for 2025 are cautiously optimistic:
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Passenger numbers are expected to grow by 4.8%, reaching 9.9 billion.
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Yet, the growth rate may slow as markets move from short-term recovery to long-term equilibrium.
E-Commerce Drives Growth in Cargo Traffic
The picture is clearer on the air cargo side. In 2024, cargo volumes increased by 8.4%, surpassing 124 million metric tonnes. The top 10 cargo airports handled 26% of this volume. The renewed surge in air cargo has been driven by the boom in e-commerce and delays in sea freight.
Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Memphis airports topped the list, serving as key centres of this growth.
The Industry Enters a New Phase
According to ACI World’s analysis, the aviation industry is not merely “recovering” – it is preparing for a new phase of growth. The key concepts defining this era are:
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Financial sustainability
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Infrastructure investment
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Operational efficiency
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Environmental responsibility
Based on data from over 2,700 airports, these rankings will be finalised in July 2025. Yet, what is already clear is this: airports are no longer just terminals that move people—they have become showcases of national ambition on the global stage.
© AeroHaber.com / Mevlüt Zor – mevlutzorr@gmail.com
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