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Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport
ATLMajor Hub

Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Atlanta · United States

Updated Apr 20, 2026

Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is the world's busiest airport by passenger traffic and aircraft movements, serving as the primary international airport for Atlanta, Georgia. Located 10 miles south of downtown Atlanta, it is the main hub for Delta Air Lines and handles extensive domestic and international flights.[1][2]

Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport spans 4,700 acres with five parallel runways, the longest measuring 12,390 feet to accommodate large aircraft like the Airbus A380. It recorded 108.1 million passengers in 2024, making it the global leader in passenger volume. The airport features a Domestic Terminal connected by the Plane Train people mover to concourses and the ATL SkyTrain for parking and rental cars. It offers services to over 150 U.S. destinations and 70+ international locations across multiple continents. Named after former mayors William B. Hartsfield and Maynard Jackson, it employs over 63,000 people.[1][2][5]

Best time to visit
Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer mild weather and fewer crowds compared to peak summer travel.
Language
English
Currency
USD
Annual passengers
108.1M / year
Distance to downtown
16 km

Interesting facts

  • ATL has been the world's busiest airport by passenger traffic since 1998 and by aircraft movements since 2005, with 108.1 million passengers in 2024 and 796,224 aircraft operations.[2]
  • The airport's Plane Train is the world's most heavily traveled airport people mover, connecting all terminals and concourses.[8]
  • It features five parallel east-west runways, including three at 9,000 feet, one at 10,000 feet, and the longest at 12,390 feet.[1]
  • Delta Air Lines handles the majority of traffic, making ATL the largest hub for the airline, which is headquartered in Atlanta.[1][10]
  • The airport covers 4,700 acres and serves destinations in North America, Latin America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and East Asia.[1]

Tips for travelers

  • Use the free Plane Train to navigate between terminals, concourses, and the Domestic Terminal efficiently.[8]
  • Take the ATL SkyTrain from the Airport MARTA station to reach parking, hotels, and the rental car center.[2][9]
  • Allow extra time for security, as the airport handles massive volumes; arrive at least 2-3 hours early for domestic flights.
  • International arrivals process through the International Terminal; use the SkyTrain for connections to other areas.[9]
  • Free WiFi and numerous dining options are available throughout; download the airport app for real-time updates.
  • MARTA rail provides direct access from downtown Atlanta to the airport in about 15-20 minutes.

Airport amenities

LoungesWiFiDining/ShoppingPlane TrainATL SkyTrainPrayer roomHotels nearbyRental cars
Information from perplexity · last verified Apr 20, 2026