5 Countries With the Most Airports

We often say “it’s a small world,” and that’s truer than ever thanks to several airports that we have in the world. With over 100,000 flights taking off daily, air travel is no longer a luxury, it’s a routine part of life. 

But while some countries like Malta get by with just one airport, others have built vast networks to serve their people, economies, and tourism industries. Here are some countries with the most airports, and why they’ve built so many.

United States

It’s no surprise the U.S. tops the list. With over 15,000 airports scattered across its 50 states, air travel is a deeply rooted part of American life. Some individual states even have more airports than entire countries. 

From massive international hubs like Atlanta and Chicago to smaller regional airstrips, the U.S. airport system supports both global commerce and local mobility. The sheer size of the country and its love for fast, efficient transport makes aviation a national priority.

Brazil

Brazil, South America’s largest country, has carved out a solid second place with 4,919 airports. This sprawling nation of over 212 million people relies heavily on air travel to connect distant regions, especially in the Amazon, where roads are limited. 

Despite economic challenges, Brazil’s aviation network remains one of the most extensive in the world, linking major cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro to remote areas often unreachable by land.

Australia

If you’ve ever tried to road-trip across Australia, you’ll know why it needs 2,180 airports. With vast open spaces and a low population density, especially in the Outback, flying often makes more sense than driving. For Australians, air travel isn’t just about luxury, it’s a lifeline between cities, towns, and isolated communities. Airports here play a major role in healthcare access, business, and tourism.

Mexico

Known for its vibrant culture and booming tourism, Mexico has around 1,485 airports. That number may raise eyebrows, but it reflects the country’s heavy dependence on air travel for both domestic and international movement. 

Tourism alone accounts for about 9% of Mexico’s GDP, meaning a strong airport infrastructure is vital. Yet interestingly, only about 30% of Mexican citizens have flown which shows a gap between the country’s flight capacity and everyday access.

Canada

Rounding out the top five is Canada, the world’s second largest country by landmass. With 1,425 airports, Canada uses aviation to overcome vast distances and harsh weather conditions. 

From the major hubs in Toronto and Vancouver to smaller airfields in the far north, flying is essential in connecting communities, especially where roads are sparse or impassable in winter. In a country where nature reigns, airports are a crucial link between remote and urban life.