Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a major international airport located in Atlanta, Georgia. It has been the world's busiest airport by passenger traffic since 1998, serving as the primary hub for Delta Air Lines and a major focus city for Southwest Airlines. The airport's strategic location and extensive domestic network have made it a critical connecting point for travel across the United States and to international destinations.

History

The airport's origins trace back to 1925, when an abandoned auto racetrack was leased by the City of Atlanta to serve as a municipal airfield, named Candler Field after former Atlanta mayor Asa Griggs Candler. Significant expansion began in the 1960s with the construction of the modern midfield terminal complex, designed by the architectural firm Stevens & Wilkinson. The airport was renamed in 2003 to honor former Atlanta mayors William B. Hartsfield and Maynard Jackson, key figures in its development. Major milestones include the opening of the International Terminal in 2012 and the ongoing ATLNext capital improvement program.

Facilities

The airport's passenger facilities are centered on two terminals—the Domestic Terminal and the Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal—connected by the Plane Train, an underground people mover. The complex contains over 200 gates across seven concourses (T, A, B, C, D, E, and F). Key features include the Delta Air Lines Sky Club lounges, the Minute Suites sleep pods, and an extensive public art program featuring works by artists like Radcliffe Bailey. Cargo operations are supported by facilities for carriers like FedEx Express and United Parcel Service.

Operations

As the primary hub for Delta Air Lines, the airport facilitates a massive volume of connecting traffic, with a flight taking off or landing approximately every 37 seconds. It operates five parallel runways, a configuration that allows for high-capacity operations in various weather conditions. The Federal Aviation Administration operates an Air Route Traffic Control Center for the region adjacent to the airport. In 2023, it handled over 775,000 aircraft movements, solidifying its status as a global aviation leader.

Airlines and destinations

Delta Air Lines maintains its largest hub at the airport, operating flights to destinations across North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Other major carriers include Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, and United Airlines. International service is provided by airlines such as Air France to Paris, British Airways to London, Korean Air to Seoul, and Qatar Airways to Doha. The airport offers non-stop service to over 150 domestic and 75 international destinations.

Ground transportation

The airport is directly connected to the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority system via the MARTA rail line at the Domestic Terminal and International Terminal stations, providing direct service to downtown Atlanta. Major interstate highways including Interstate 85, Interstate 75, and Interstate 285 provide road access. Numerous rental car companies operate a consolidated facility connected via a dedicated shuttle bus system, while taxi, rideshare, and limousine services are available on the lower level of both terminals.

Accidents and incidents

The airport has experienced several notable aviation accidents. In 1965, an Eastern Air Lines Douglas DC-7 crashed on approach, resulting in fatalities. A significant incident occurred in 1983, when an Air Canada McDonnell Douglas DC-9 overran the runway during a thunderstorm. In 1995, a Delta Air Lines Lockheed L-1011 TriStar experienced a windshear-induced crash on final approach, leading to changes in Federal Aviation Administration training procedures. These events have contributed to ongoing advancements in aviation safety protocols.