Check out the latest data on the most bustling airline routes in the United States. OAG's newly released information reveals some surprising shifts and trends in domestic and international air travel. Let's dive in and explore the details.

Uncover the Top Air Routes and Their Impact

Atlanta - Orlando: A Climb in Rankings

The air traffic control tower at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) on September 10, 2022, is a sight to behold. With 3.47 million seats, the ATL-MCO route saw a significant climb in 2024, moving from second place last year to the top spot among domestic routes. This bustling route draws travelers from all over, with Atlanta's status as a major hub and Orlando's popularity as a tourist destination contributing to its success. The airport's name, inspired by two past Atlanta mayors, adds a touch of local history. Orlando International Airport's code, stemming from the air force base it was built on, further enhances its unique identity.The continuous flow of passengers through this route showcases the strong demand for travel between these two cities. It's a prime example of how certain routes can become hotspots in the aviation industry, attracting both business and leisure travelers.

Honolulu - Kahului: A Shift in the Top Spot

Last year, the route between Honolulu and Kahului held the number one position. In 2024, it still remains a significant route with nearly 3.37 million scheduled seats. The Daniel K. Inouye International Airport on the island of Oahu and Kahului Airport on Maui serve as important gateways for travelers in the Hawaiian region. This route connects the vibrant city of Honolulu with the laid-back charm of Kahului, offering a diverse travel experience. The popularity of these destinations and the ease of travel between them contribute to the high seat capacity on this route.It's interesting to see how the rankings can change from year to year while these routes continue to play a crucial role in connecting different parts of the world.

Las Vegas - Los Angeles: A Steady Presence

Las Vegas to Los Angeles's position on OAG's ranking for "busiest" U.S. domestic routes remained unchanged from last year. These two cities, with their distinct atmospheres and attractions, are well-connected by air. Planes traveling between Sin City and the City of Angels cover a distance of about 240 miles, making it a popular route for both business and leisure trips.The consistent demand for travel between Las Vegas and Los Angeles highlights the importance of these cities in the regional and national travel landscape. Whether it's for business meetings or weekend getaways, this route remains a staple in the airline industry.

Denver - Phoenix: A Year-on-Year Increase

Denver to Phoenix had about 3.21 million scheduled seats for 2024, marking a 5.7% increase year-over-year. These two cities, with their unique cultures and economies, are seeing a growing demand for air travel. The addition of flights and the increasing popularity of these destinations contribute to the rise in seat capacity.Denver's status as a major western hub and Phoenix's growth as a vibrant city make this route a key player in the airline industry. It showcases the dynamic nature of air travel and the evolving patterns of passenger demand.

Los Angeles - San Francisco: A Close Contender

Roughly 3.16 million airline seats contributed to the Los Angeles to San Francisco route earning its No. 5 spot this year. These two California cities, among the largest in the state, attract millions of visitors each year. The close proximity and the diverse range of activities and attractions in both cities make this route a popular choice for travelers.The competition among these major California cities for air travel is fierce, and the Los Angeles to San Francisco route is a prime example of the importance of regional connectivity in the travel industry.Other busy domestic routes by seat capacity included New York JFK - Los Angeles, New York La Guardia - Chicago O'Hare, Atlanta - Fort Lauderdale, Atlanta - New York La Guardia and Denver - Las Vegas this year. The LGA-ORD route saw the biggest increase in capacity year on year, with American Airlines and United maintaining similar route capacity while Spirit Airlines added 700 flights, positioning it as one of the busiest U.S. routes.Among international flight routes, Hong Kong to Taipei received the title of "busiest international airline route" for the year, with 6.8 million seats. This highlights the importance of international travel and the strong connections between different regions.Globally, airlines are projected to see 5.2 billion passengers in 2025, carried on some 40 million flights. This growth in passenger numbers underscores the continued importance of the airline industry in connecting people and facilitating global trade and tourism.