Atlanta remains the world’s busiest airport as Delta strengthens global hub operations - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport has once again been named the world’s busiest airport by Airports Council International World. According to the organization’s latest annual rankings, the airport handled more than 106 million passengers in 2025, reaffirming its role as the central hub of Delta Air Lines’ global network.

The airport has now held the title for 27 of the past 28 years, losing the top position only once during the pandemic in 2020. Dubai International Airport ranked second in the latest global standings, followed by Tokyo Haneda Airport in third place.

For Delta, whose largest hub is based in Atlanta, the recognition highlights the long-standing importance of the airport for both the airline and the wider economy of the state of Georgia.

“This distinction is a point of pride for Delta,” said Jeff Davidman, Vice President of State and Local Government Affairs at Delta Air Lines. “It reflects the dedication of our people and our shared commitment with airport partners to deliver a best-in-class experience. We look forward to the continued growth of ATL’s legacy alongside that of Delta.”

Delta continues major investments in Atlanta hub

Hartsfield-Jackson remains the cornerstone of Delta’s international route network and plays a significant role in employment and economic development across Georgia. Delta currently operates nearly 1,000 peak-day departures from Atlanta to 207 destinations worldwide, including 61 international destinations.

The airline has invested more than 12 billion US dollars into modernizing its hub network in recent years, including extensive upgrades at Hartsfield-Jackson. Projects include expanded concourses, upgraded Sky Clubs and the introduction of technologies such as TSA PreCheck® Touchless ID designed to accelerate passenger processing.

Georgia Governor Brian P. Kemp emphasized the airport’s wider economic importance for the region. “As home to the busiest airport in the world, Hartsfield-Jackson reinforces Georgia’s place as a global leader for investment, tourism, and trade,” he said. “This recognition reflects the dedication of the airport workforce and the strong public-private partnership that keep our state connected to the world.”

Kemp also pointed to Delta’s long-standing presence in Georgia, where the airline has been headquartered since 1941 and now employs more than 37,000 people across the state.

Airport seen as economic engine for Atlanta

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens described the airport as a key driver of growth and international connectivity. “Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is more than just a gateway to the world; it is an economic engine for our Atlanta and our state,” he said.

“As ATL once again leads the world in passenger traffic, we celebrate the employees, partners, and airlines like Delta who make this possible through teamwork and investment.”

City officials say further investments in infrastructure, workforce development and innovation are planned to maintain Atlanta’s position as one of the world’s leading aviation hubs.

Image Credit: © Delta Air Lines