The 10 Largest U.S. Airports by Land Area: A Surprising List
Navigating the vast expanse of major U.S. airports can feel like traversing a small city. While size doesn’t always equate to passenger volume, many of America’s largest airports are as sprawling as they are busy. Here’s a look at the ten largest airports in the U.S. by land area, based on the most recent data available:
1. Denver International Airport (DEN): 53 Square Miles
Denver International Airport (DEN) tops the list, covering a staggering 53 square miles, making it the second-largest airport globally after King Fahd International Airport in Saudi Arabia. Its expansive layout, which surpasses that of cities like San Francisco and Miami, allows for six runways and a newly expanded terminal with 90 gates. The airport also features an 82,000-square-foot outdoor plaza and several outdoor decks for travelers to enjoy the scenic Colorado landscape.
2. Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW): 26 Square Miles
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), covering 26 square miles, is larger than Manhattan. As the base for American Airlines, DFW boasts five terminals and 168 gates. The airport is investing in sustainability with plans for a zero-carbon electrical plant to achieve net-zero emissions by 2030. With seven runways and a significant variety of dining and wellness options, it’s designed to accommodate more than 73 million passengers annually.
3. Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW): 21.2 Square Miles
Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) spans 21.2 square miles, making it the third largest in the U.S. Its large footprint is partly dedicated to land conservation, with 6,000 acres preserved as swamp lands. Located in Fort Myers, the airport serves as a gateway to popular destinations like Naples and Punta Gorda. A terminal expansion, set for completion in early 2025, is underway to accommodate growing passenger numbers.
4. Orlando International Airport (MCO): 20.7 Square Miles
Orlando International Airport (MCO) covers 20.7 square miles and serves as a major hub for travel to Central Florida’s renowned theme parks. With 850 daily flights and 44 airlines, it’s the seventh busiest airport in the U.S. MCO recently opened a $2.8 billion Terminal C and hosts a new Brightline station for high-speed rail service, enhancing connectivity and passenger convenience.
5. Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD): 18.7 Square Miles
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) occupies 18.7 square miles in Northern Virginia. Originally criticized for its remote location, Dulles has evolved into a major aerotropolis with a thriving technology and defense sector. The airport, a key hub for United Airlines, offers flights to numerous international and domestic destinations. Recent expansions include a Metro line connection for easier access.
6. George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH): 17.1 Square Miles
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston spans 17.1 square miles and features five runways. It’s a major hub for long-haul flights, particularly to Latin America, and is also a base for United Airlines. The airport is preparing for a new international terminal opening in early 2025 to accommodate its growing passenger numbers.
7. Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC): 12 Square Miles
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) covers 12 square miles and is notable for being the first major U.S. hub built in the 21st century. The $4 billion renovation, completed in phases, has modernized the facility with art installations and spacious design. SLC is seeing increased international traffic and will expand its capacity further by 2026.
8. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD): 11.25 Square Miles
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) covers 11.25 square miles and is one of the busiest airports globally, handling nearly 74 million passengers in 2023. The airport features eight runways and 202 gates, with a major $8.5 billion modernization project underway, expected to complete by 2028.
9. San Francisco International Airport (SFO): 8.14 Square Miles
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) spans 8.14 square miles and is a key gateway to the Asia-Pacific region. The airport’s international terminal is the largest in the country, and its earthquake-resistant design ensures safety during seismic events. SFO’s recent upgrades include outdoor spaces like the Sky Terrace for panoramic views.
10. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK): 8.1 Square Miles
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York covers 8.1 square miles and is the busiest U.S. airport for international flights. Despite ongoing renovations aimed at creating a greener, more efficient airport, JFK remains a critical hub, accommodating 62 million passengers annually and serving 90 airlines.
These airports, with their vast areas and extensive facilities, reflect the growing demand for air travel and the need for expansive, modern infrastructure to support it.
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