Top 10 Largest Airports in the United States by Area in 2025

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Airports are more than just transit hubs—they’re essential infrastructures for efficient air travel. In 2025, with air traffic booming, the vast areas of major US airports enable them to handle immense passenger volumes and cargo operations.

This article explores the largest airports in the United States by area, detailing their significance and role in the aviation ecosystem.

From connecting continents to supporting regional economies, these airports demonstrate the value of space and efficient design. Let’s delve into how they contribute to smoother travel experiences and robust airline operations.

Photo: Denver Airport

Top 10 Largest Airports in the United States

Airport land areas are not mere statistics; they represent operational capabilities. Larger airports can accommodate high passenger traffic, handle extensive cargo, and host multiple terminals and support facilities.

Below is a detailed look at the 10 largest airports in the United States by area in 2025.

RankAirport NameCityArea (Sq. Km)Passenger Traffic (2023)
1 Denver International Airport Denver, Colorado 137.26 69 million
2 Dallas/Fort Worth International Dallas, Texas 69.01 73 million
3 Orlando International Airport Orlando, Florida 53.88 54 million
4 Washington Dulles International Dulles, Virginia 52.60 24 million
5 George Bush Intercontinental Houston, Texas 40.47 45 million
6 Salt Lake City International Salt Lake City, Utah 31.16 27 million
7 O’Hare International Airport Chicago, Illinois 30.86 83 million
8 San Francisco International San Francisco, CA 21.07 50 million
9 John F. Kennedy International New York City, NY 21.04 62 million
10 Detroit Metropolitan Airport Detroit, Michigan 19.63 36 million
Photo: Denver International Airport

1. Denver International Airport (DEN)

  • Area: 137.26 sq.km
  • Passenger Traffic: 69 million (2023)
  • Location: Denver, Colorado

Denver International Airport (DEN) is the largest airport in the United States by land area and one of the most expansive globally.

Known for its white-tented architecture resembling the Rocky Mountains, it serves as a critical hub for domestic and international flights.

It supports efficient cargo operations and has significant room for expansion, solidifying its role as a major gateway to the western U.S.

Photo: Dallas International Airport (DFW)

2. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)

  • Area: 69.01 sq.km
  • Passenger Traffic: 73 million (2023)
  • Location: Dallas, Texas

Serving as a primary hub for American Airlines (AA), Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) operates with five terminals and multiple runways.

Its strategic location between Dallas and Fort Worth enables seamless domestic and international connectivity.

The airport features extensive parking facilities, efficient ground services, and advanced cargo handling infrastructure.

Photo: HNTB

3. Orlando International Airport (MCO)

  • Area: 53.88 sq.km
  • Passenger Traffic: 54 million (2023)
  • Location: Orlando, Florida

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is a gateway to Florida’s iconic attractions, including Walt Disney World and Universal Studios.

Its expansive layout supports millions of tourists annually, with state-of-the-art terminals, ample parking, and proximity to major highways. It also has a robust cargo operation, complementing its passenger services.

Photo: By Joe Ravi, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=16400251

4. Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)

  • Area: 52.60 sq.km
  • Passenger Traffic: 24 million (2023)
  • Location: Dulles, Virginia

Located near the nation’s capital, Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) features a futuristic terminal design by Eero Saarinen. Its vast area enables efficient international operations and frequent transatlantic flights.

The airport is a hub for United Airlines (UA) and plays a significant role in connecting D.C. to global destinations.

Photo: Skansha

5. George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston

  • Area: 40.47 sq.km
  • Passenger Traffic: 45 million (2023)
  • Location: Houston, Texas

Named after the 41st U.S. president, George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) connects Houston to major global cities, particularly in Latin America. Its layout supports five terminals, extensive cargo facilities, and advanced runway systems.

The airport is a primary hub for United Airlines (UA) and caters to both passenger and freight operations.

Photo: Salt Lake City International Airport

6. Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)

  • Area: 31.16 sq.km
  • Passenger Traffic: 27 million (2023)
  • Location: Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is a hub for Delta Airlines (DL), facilitating domestic and international travel. The airport recently underwent extensive renovations, including a new terminal and enhanced runway systems.

Its strategic location makes it a vital connection point for the Western United States.

Photo: Santiago Calatrava

7. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

  • Area: 30.86 sq.km
  • Passenger Traffic: 83 million (2023)
  • Location: Chicago, Illinois

One of the busiest airports globally, O’Hare (ORD) is renowned for its extensive terminal network and efficient runway operations.

It serves as a critical hub for both American Airlines (AA) and United Airlines (UA). The airport plays a pivotal role in connecting the Midwest to domestic and international destinations.

Photo: Wally Gobetz | Flickr

8. San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

  • Area: 21.07 sq.km
  • Passenger Traffic: 58 million (2023)
  • Location: San Francisco, California

Strategically located along the Pacific coast, San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is a key gateway for transpacific flights. The airport features four terminals, advanced cargo facilities, and a commitment to sustainability. It offers a range of luxury services and is known for its eco-friendly initiatives.

Photo: File: New York – John F. Kennedy International (Idlewild) (JFK – KJFK) AN0619542.jpg – Wikimedia Commons

9. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York

  • Area: 21.04 sq.km
  • Passenger Traffic: 62 million (2023)
  • Location: New York City, New York

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is a vital international gateway to the United States, connecting New York to cities worldwide.

The airport has six terminals and handles a high volume of passenger and cargo traffic. It is a hub for multiple airlines, including Delta and American Airlines.

Photo: By qwesy qwesy, CC BY 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=58940456

10. Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW)

  • Area: 19.63 sq.km
  • Passenger Traffic: 36 million (2023)
  • Location: Detroit, Michigan

Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) is a major hub for Delta Airlines and a key connection point for the Midwest. It features modern terminals, efficient runways, and advanced facilities for both passengers and cargo. The airport supports the economic growth of Detroit and its surrounding regions.

Photo: Foster Epstein Moreno

Bottom Line

These expansive airports are pivotal to the U.S. transportation network. Their layouts enable efficient passenger movement, reduced delays, and enhanced cargo handling.

Furthermore, their ability to expand infrastructure, such as lounges, terminals, and parking facilities, ensures they meet evolving demands.

The largest United States airports by area are more than engineering marvels, they are vital to global connectivity and economic growth. From facilitating international commerce to enriching travel experiences, these airports embody the progress of modern aviation.

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