When someone is considering the Biggest airport in the United States, one may think that is Atlanta the largest airport in the US or Los Angeles International (LAX) or John F. Kennedy International (JFK)? Neither! The United States is Denver International Airport (DIA), also known by its IATA code, DEN with over 33,531 acres. DIA is not just the largest in the country, but also one of the most significant airports globally.
The 10 Biggest Airports in the United States
- Denver International Airport (DEN): 53 square miles
- Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW): 26 square miles
- Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW): 21.2 square miles
- Orlando International Airport (MCO): 20.7 square miles
- Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD): 18.7 square miles
- George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH): 17.1 square miles
- Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC): 12 square miles
- Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD): 11.25 square miles
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO): 8.14 square miles
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK): 8.1 square miles
History and Development
Denver International Airport opened on 28th February, 1995 by replacing the old Stapleton International Airport. The need for a new airport raised due factors like the need for more runways, better weather conditions and the desire to promote Denver as one of the major air traffic hubs in the USA. the location is ideal as it is approximately 25 miles from downtown Denver and was chosen for expansion to reduce noise pollution.
The airport’s design and the construction faced many obstacles like flight delay and budget overruns. Despite these hurdles, the result was magnificent with distinctive architecture and facilities. The tent-like roof structure that resembles the Rocky Mountains. This is a unique design created by architect Curt Fentress which has made DIA one of the most recognizable airports in the world.
Size and Capacity
Denver International Airports is of vast size and can handle a vast significant amount of air traffic. With six runways and five of which are 12,000 feet long and one which is 16,000 feet long. For this reason DIA can accommodate even the largest aircrafts including Airbus A380. The airports has three concourses: A, B and C which together have more than 140 gates.
In terms of passenger traffic, this airport is considered as one of the busiest airports in the world. With over 69 million passengers travelling through terminals in 2019, it ranks among the top 20 airports globally consistently. The number dropped due to the pandemic COVID-19, although the number has increased after the recovery of the pandemic and eased travel restrictions.
Connectivity and Airlines
This airports serves as a great hub especially a major one which includes airlines like United Airlines and Frontier Airlines. It is also a key hub for Southwest Airlines. United Airlines, the largest carrier at DIA, offers extensive connectivity, with numerous flights to destinations across the United States, as well as international routes. This makes DIA a critical connecting point for domestic and international flights.
United Airlines, the largest carrier at DIA, offers extensive connectivity, with numerous flights to destinations across the United States, as well as international routes. Frontier Airlines, has their headquarters in Denver which provides them low cost flights. This makes Frontier Airlines a budget friendly choice for travellers. Southwest Airlines also offers a robust network of domestic flights, further enhancing DIA’s role as a central hub for air travel.
Facilities and Services
Modern facilities in the airport include mobile charging stations, free Wi-Fi, shopping stores, and plenty of dining options. These facilities and amenities are included to enhance passengers’ travelling experience in the airport.
DIA offers facilities to families like providing play zones for the children to keep them engaged in the airports. There are also pet relief areas that are designated for pet owners who are travelling with their furry friends. This ensures that the airport cares about the passengers’ well-being whether they are kids or animals. The airport staff are there to help those who are physically challenged or need assistance.
There are plenty of options for fine dining that cater to all tastes and diet preferences. From famous fast food chains to gourmet restaurants, you get everything in one place to sit and relax in your spare time at the airport. Some fine dining options are Root Down, Elway’s, and also Denver Central Market which offers local cuisine.
Shopping at DIA is as amazing as dining. There are stores from luxury to local convenience stores for travellers to buy souvenirs or essential items for the flight. Passengers can purchase luxury fashion items, electronics, and many more from the airports as per their needs. The airport also features duty-free stores which are tax-free goods for international travellers.
Art and Culture
Denver International Airports is famous for its remarkable array of art and culture showcased all over the terminal. Whether it’s permanent installations or changing exhibits highlighting local, national, and international artists, passengers can enjoy a wide variety of artwork as they navigate through the airport.
The iconic “Blue Mustang” sculpture by Luis Jimenez stands proudly at 32 feet tall, near the airports entrance. This striking blue horse has become a powerful symbol of the DIA airports, where visitors can enjoy live performances and cultural events for a truly enriching experience.
Sustainability Initiatives
Environmental wellness and sustainability are the top priorities of the Denver International Airport. The airports has put numerous efforts and has taken several approaches towards recycling programs, water conservation measures and setting up solar panels to save energy.
DIA is renowned for taking steps for the environmental issues, hence, they took the initiative of
Sustainability and environmental well-being are priorities for Denver International Airport. The airports has put in place a number of efforts to lessen its influence on the environment, including as recycling programs, water conservation measures, and energy-efficient lighting.
Since DIA is renowned for taking a sustainable stance on environmental issues, it started a solar power initiative. The airport relies less on non-renewable energy sources thanks to its four solar arrays, which provide a sizable amount of its electricity. The airport has also received recognition for its initiatives to advance environmentally friendly mobility, including providing travelers with electric vehicle charging stations and a wide range of public transportation options.
Future Expansion
This airports is one of the largest and busiest airports in the United States, it continues to expand to meet the needs of modern day needs. The airport is currently undergoing a major expansion project, which includes the construction of new gates and the renovation of existing facilities.
This expansion is going to add 39 new gates across the three concourses which will increase the capacity of the airport, allowing more booking flights and destinations. The project also includes upgrades to the terminal, including new security checkpoints, enhanced passenger amenities, and improved baggage handling systems.
The enhancements aim to make the passenger journey more enjoyable, minimize wait times, and cater to the increasing number of travelers at DIA annually.
Conclusion
Denver International Airports is a role model for modern aviation as it stands out for the size, efficiency, and the amount of passengers it can hold being the biggest airports in the United States. the strategic architecture, design, amazing facilities and commitment towards sustainability makes the airport an ideal model worldwide. Whether you are a frequent traveller or an occasional one, the facilities that DIA Airport provides is the future of aviation in the USA. With expansions and improvements, DIA is going to remain the leading airports in many more years.
FAQ On Biggest Airports In The United States
What are the three biggest airports in the United States ?
- Denver International Airport (DEN)
- Dallas/Fort Worth International Airports (DFW)
- Orlando International Airport (MCO)
What is the biggest airport in the United States by area?
Denver International Airport (DEN) is the largest airport in the US by area, covering 33,531 acres.
Is Atlanta the biggest airport in the United States?
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airports (ATL) is the busiest by passenger traffic but not the largest by area.
What are the 10 largest airports in the USA by area?
- Denver International Airport (DEN)
- Dallas/Fort Worth International Airports (DFW)
- Orlando International Airport (MCO)
- Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
- George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
- Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
- O’Hare International Airports (ORD)
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
- John F. Kennedy International Airports (JFK)
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
