Airports Council International (ACI) World this week unveiled the highly anticipated preliminary top 10 busiest airports worldwide for 2023, showcasing significant shifts driven by the resurgence of international air travel and cargo movement.
Notably, cargo continues to play a key role in world commerce. Hong Kong International Airport has maintained the top position, followed by Memphis International Airport and Shanghai Pudong International Airport. Doha International Airport rejoins the top 10, jumping to number 8 with a growth of 6.3% over 2019, highlighted a communique.
“The rankings highlight the crucial role these transportation hubs play in global connectivity, commerce and economic development. Airports continue to demonstrate their resilience and adaptability amidst the challenges posed by the ever-evolving landscape of global travel. ACI World remains dedicated to advocating for airports worldwide throughout pivotal stages of policy formulation and to advancing the pursuit of airport excellence,” the communique stressed.
The rankings are based on data gathered from over 2,600 airports across more than 180 countries and territories globally. This vast dataset places ACI World in a distinctive position as the foremost authority on airport travel demand, ensuring the utmost accuracy and reliability in its rankings.
Cargo traffic highlights
Air cargo volumes are estimated to have decreased by 3.1% year-over-year (-4.6% versus 2019), to close to 113 million metric tonnes in 2023.
Air cargo volumes in the top 10—representing around 26% (29.6 million metric tonnes) of the global volumes in 2023—lost 3.5% in 2023 year-over-year. The decline can be attributed to the ongoing geopolitical tensions and disruptions to global trade and supply chains.
Hong Kong International Airport remained in top rank followed by Memphis International Airport and Shanghai Pudong International Airport. Anchorage Airport ranks 4th and is followed by Incheon International Airport in 5th.