Singapore Changi Airport continues to cement its reputation as one of the world’s best. With a collection of prestigious accolades—including being named the fifth most luxurious airport, the most Instagrammable, and the best for shopping—Changi is also recognized as one of the most stunning terminals globally.
Now, the airport has achieved another milestone, ranking as the world’s fourth-busiest international airport in 2024, according to OAG (Official Airline Guide) Aviation. It recorded 67.7 million passengers last year, solidifying its status as a major global hub.
The report also compares the airport’s performance with data from 2023 and pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
Dubai International Airport (DXB) remains the world’s busiest airport in 2024, with a record-breaking 92.3 million passengers—a 12% increase from pre-pandemic levels in 2019. London Heathrow (LHR) follows in second place, setting a new record for passenger volume. Seoul Incheon (ICN) ranks third, experiencing a significant post-Covid rebound, with a 24% increase in seat capacity in 2024 compared to 2023.
Meanwhile, Hong Kong International Airport recorded the largest seat capacity growth this year, reaching 34.6 million—a 40% surge from 2023. This rapid expansion propelled it to the ninth spot among the world’s busiest airports.
Changi Airport’s Strong Comeback
Singapore Changi Airport continues to uphold its reputation as a symbol of efficiency and innovation. In 2024, the airport nearly returned to pre-pandemic passenger levels, handling 67.7 million passengers—99.1% of its 2019 figures. Additionally, its international seat capacity grew by 15% from the previous year, reaching 41.5 million, according to OAG Aviation (January 15).
In 2023, Changi ranked as the world’s fifth-busiest international airport by seat capacity, though it remained 2% below its pre-pandemic scheduled seat capacity of 42.5 million in 2019.
As a key hub for Asia-Pacific and long-haul flights, Changi remains a crucial transit point. With its recovery nearly complete, expectations are high that by 2025, the airport will surpass previous records and continue its growth trajectory.
The World’s 5 Busiest International Airports by Seat Capacity
- Dubai International (DXB) – 60,236,220 seats, 92.3 million passengers
- London Heathrow (LHR) – 48,358,450 seats, 83.9 million passengers
- Seoul Incheon (ICN) – 41,633,831 seats, 70.67 million passengers
- Singapore Changi (SIN) – 41,530,309 seats, 67.7 million passengers
- Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) – 39,998,853 seats, 66.8 million passengers
Southeast Asia’s Air Travel Rebounds
According to OAG, international seat capacity in Southeast Asia has returned to pre-pandemic levels, except in Indonesia and Thailand. Overall, international capacity now exceeds domestic travel.
Among the five key markets—Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam—the Philippines recorded the highest growth at 24%, followed by Malaysia at 19%.
As of January 2025, Singapore’s international seat capacity had increased by 3% compared to 2019. Additionally, four of the region’s five busiest international routes lead to Singapore, with Kuala Lumpur–Singapore ranked first, followed by Jakarta, Bangkok, and Bali.
