Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) in Delhi has climbed to the ninth spot among the world’s busiest airports in 2024, driven by expanding airline operations, upgraded infrastructure, and improved global connectivity.
The latest figures from Airports Council International (ACI) World show that IGIA handled 77.8 million passengers over the year—a 7.8% rise compared to 2023 and a 13.6% increase over pre-pandemic levels in 2019. In 2023, the airport ranked tenth.
Topping the list once again is Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in the United States, which served over 108 million passengers. Dubai International Airport followed in second place with 92.3 million passengers, while Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, also in the US, secured third with 87.8 million.
Other airports in the top ten include Tokyo’s Haneda Airport (fourth), London Heathrow (fifth), Denver International (sixth), Istanbul Airport (seventh), and Chicago O’Hare (eighth).
ACI World’s rankings are based on total passenger numbers, including those embarking and disembarking, with transiting passengers counted only once.
“The unwavering strength of Istanbul Airport and New Delhi International Airport keeps them in the top ranks, marking significant progress since 2019,” ACI said in a statement. “Both airports have been thriving due to airline expansion, infrastructure development, and enhanced global connectivity.”
Looking ahead, ACI projects that global passenger traffic will reach 9.9 billion in 2025, with a year-on-year growth rate of 4.8%. However, it noted that while passenger demand remains strong, growth is expected to moderate as the aviation sector moves from a recovery-driven surge to more sustainable, long-term expansion.
As of January 2025, ACI represents 830 members operating over 2,180 airports in 170 countries.
(With inputs from PTI)
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