Airport Guides

The top five busiest US airports in 2024 by total passengers were Atlanta (ATL), Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), Denver (DEN), Chicago O'Hare (ORD), and Los Angeles (LAX). Our guides cover the top 70 busiest US airports with terminal layouts, connection times, and layover advice.

The easiest US airports to leave during a layover are DCA (Reagan National) and BOS (Boston Logan), both with direct subway service reaching downtown in 15-25 minutes. LAS (Las Vegas) is also very close to The Strip, and SLC (Salt Lake City) is only 7 miles from downtown.

Atlanta (ATL) has Minute Suites with showers and sleep rooms, The Club ATL lounges, and a renowned art program. Detroit (DTW) McNamara Terminal has a famous light tunnel and mile-long airside walkway. SFO and LGA have fully rebuilt terminals with premium dining.

ATL, DFW, DEN, CLT, SLC, IAD, TPA, PHL, IAH, MIA, LAS, and SEA are airside-connected, meaning you can transfer between all concourses without re-clearing security. LAX, JFK, EWR, BOS, MSP, DTW, SAN, and MSP require shuttles and re-security for inter-terminal transfers.

For domestic flights, arrive 90-120 minutes before departure (120 min at busy airports like JFK, LAX, ORD, ATL). For international flights, arrive 150-210 minutes before departure. Add 30-60 minutes during peak travel seasons or if you need to check bags or clear security without PreCheck.