Denver International Airport continues to rank among the busiest airports in the world. In 2024, the airport handled more than 82 million passengers, marking steady growth. However, the race for dominance in the Midwest is heating up fast. Chicago O’Hare is narrowing the gap, making Denver’s top-three spot less secure.
While Denver International Airport celebrated its 30th year with impressive numbers, Chicago’s surge is catching attention. O’Hare boosted its passenger count by over 8%, nearly closing a 4 million gap from 2023. That difference now stands at only 2 million. If this pace continues, Denver could lose its lead soon.
Globally, Denver still holds a strong position. It remains just behind major international hubs like Atlanta, Dubai, and Tokyo. Yet, Istanbul and New Delhi are also advancing fast. These airports are gaining international routes and growing at a consistent pace, adding to the pressure.
Denver International Airport is chasing a bold target of 100 million passengers by 2032. However, recent internal projections suggest this milestone could arrive much earlier—possibly by 2027. A major factor behind this growth is a 15% spike in international travel, driven by new overseas connections and stronger airline partnerships.
Besides passenger volume, the airport plays a vital role in Colorado’s economy. It generates more than $47 billion each year. Ongoing infrastructure projects are in motion to prepare for the rising demand. These include expanded gates, enhanced services, and new sustainability initiatives to match global standards.
As international travel rebounds, Denver’s reputation as a global hub grows stronger. Yet, with Chicago rising faster, the next few years will test Denver’s ability to stay ahead. The aviation race in the Midwest is far from over, and every year counts.
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