The United States is home to some of the largest and busiest airports in the world. Covering a vast land area, these airports possess substantial capacity for flight operations and potential for expansion. This article explores the ten largest airports in the United States by land area, highlighting their unique characteristics and operational capabilities.
10. Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport
Located in Michigan, the Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) spans approximately 7.3 square miles (19 square kilometers). Serving as a hub for Delta Air Lines and Spirit Airlines, this airport features six runways, including the notable Runway 4L/22R, which measures 12,003 feet (3,659 meters).
DTW comprises two passenger terminals with a total of 150 gates. The Edward H. McNamara Terminal is the larger of the two, with three concourses housing 121 gates, while the Warren Cleage Evans Terminal has 29 gates.
9. John F. Kennedy International Airport
New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) covers 8 square miles (21 square kilometers) and serves as the primary international gateway to the United States. With four runways, including the impressive Runway 13R/31L at 14,511 feet (4,423 meters), JFK is well-equipped to handle significant flight traffic.
The airport houses five terminals, totaling 130 gates, and serves as a hub for major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and JetBlue. It also supports a substantial cargo operation.
8. San Francisco International Airport
The San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is the largest airport in California, covering 8.1 square miles (21.07 square kilometers). Serving as a major hub for United Airlines, SFO plays a crucial role in trans-Pacific travel.
SFO operates four intersecting runways and features a total of 121 gates across four terminals. It is known for its unique operational capabilities, including simultaneous parallel approaches and departures, although it faces operational restrictions during adverse weather conditions.
7. Chicago O’Hare International Airport
With an area of 11.9 square miles (30.9 square kilometers), Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is one of the busiest airports globally. It serves as a hub for both American Airlines and United Airlines, featuring eight runways—the most of any airport worldwide.
O’Hare includes four terminals with a total of 216 gates. Terminal 1 has 52 gates, while Terminal 3 boasts 80 gates, making it a significant player in the airline industry.
6. Salt Lake City International Airport
Covering 11.96 square miles (31 square kilometers), Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is the primary airport in Utah. It serves as a major hub for Delta Air Lines and features four runways.
The airport has a single terminal with two concourses, providing a total of 83 gates, with plans for further expansion in the coming years.
5. George Bush Intercontinental Airport
Located in Houston, the George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) spans 15.4 square miles (40 square kilometers) and serves as a hub for United Airlines. The airport features five runways and supports a diverse range of operations.
IAH has five terminals, with a total of 121 gates, making it a vital connection point for domestic and international flights.
4. Washington Dulles International Airport
Spanning 20 square miles (52 square kilometers), Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) acts as a secondary transatlantic hub for United Airlines. It features four operational runways, with plans for a fifth runway.
The airport’s main terminal includes four gates, while two parallel midfield buildings contain 135 gates, bringing the total to 139 gates.
3. Orlando International Airport
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is Florida’s busiest airport, covering 20.8 square miles (54 square kilometers). It hosts multiple operating bases for various airlines but does not feature a major hub from any of the three largest US airlines.
MCO has four parallel runways and consists of multiple terminals, accommodating a high volume of tourist travel due to its proximity to major attractions.
2. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport
The Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is the largest and busiest airport in Texas, covering 26.6 square miles (69 square kilometers). It serves as the primary hub for American Airlines and features seven runways.
DFW includes six terminals and boasts a total of 193 gates, with an expansion project underway to add more capacity.
1. Denver International Airport
At the top of the list is Denver International Airport (DEN), the largest airport in the United States, covering an impressive 52 square miles (135 square kilometers). DEN serves as a major hub for United Airlines and features six runways arranged in a unique pinwheel pattern for efficient operations.
The airport’s single terminal, the Jeppesen Terminal, includes three midfield concourses with a total of 169 gates, making it a key player in both domestic and international travel.
These airports not only contribute significantly to the United States’ transportation infrastructure but also play crucial roles in connecting people and goods across the globe.
