Airports In Atlanta, Georgia: How Many?

Oct 23, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 40 views

Hey guys! Ever wondered about the air traffic scene in Atlanta, Georgia? Specifically, how many airports are buzzing around the ATL? Well, you've landed at the right spot! Let's dive into the number of airports in Atlanta, focusing on the primary aviation hub and its surrounding facilities. Understanding the scope of air travel infrastructure can give you a better appreciation for how this vibrant city connects with the world.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL): The Main Player

When people talk about airports in Atlanta, the first and foremost one that pops into everyone's mind is Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). This isn't just another airport; it's a global aviation behemoth! For many years, ATL has proudly held the title of the world's busiest airport, a testament to its strategic location, efficient operations, and the sheer volume of passengers it handles. Situated just a few miles south of downtown Atlanta, Hartsfield-Jackson serves as a primary gateway to the Southeastern United States and a crucial connecting point for flights across North America, South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. Its economic impact on the region is immense, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs and facilitating billions of dollars in trade and tourism.

The airport's infrastructure is staggering, featuring two main terminals—the Domestic Terminal and the International Terminal (Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal)—along with multiple concourses connected by an underground train system. This setup allows for the smooth transit of millions of passengers each year. The airport is constantly evolving, with ongoing projects aimed at enhancing the passenger experience, increasing capacity, and implementing sustainable practices. Hartsfield-Jackson isn't just a place to catch a flight; it's a destination in itself, offering a wide array of dining, shopping, and service options. Whether you're a frequent flyer or a first-time visitor, navigating ATL can be an adventure, and understanding its layout and services can make your journey a lot smoother.

Beyond its physical infrastructure, Hartsfield-Jackson plays a pivotal role in the global aviation network. It serves as a major hub for Delta Air Lines, which operates a significant portion of its flights from ATL. The airport also hosts numerous other domestic and international carriers, providing connectivity to destinations all over the world. Its central location and extensive route network make it an attractive option for travelers looking for convenient and efficient connections. In addition to passenger traffic, Hartsfield-Jackson handles a substantial amount of cargo, contributing to the region's economic vitality and facilitating the movement of goods across borders. As Atlanta continues to grow as a global city, Hartsfield-Jackson will undoubtedly remain a critical asset, driving economic development and connecting people from all walks of life.

Beyond ATL: Other Airports Near Atlanta

Okay, so while Hartsfield-Jackson is the star of the show, it's not the only airport in the Atlanta metropolitan area. There are several smaller airports that cater to general aviation, corporate travel, and regional flights. These facilities play a vital role in supporting the broader aviation needs of the region, providing services that complement the capabilities of Hartsfield-Jackson. Let's explore some of these other airports:

1. DeKalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK)

Located in Chamblee, just north of Atlanta, DeKalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK) is one of the busiest general aviation airports in the United States. It primarily serves corporate and private aircraft, offering a convenient alternative to the bustling Hartsfield-Jackson for those who prefer a smaller, more specialized facility. PDK boasts multiple fixed-base operators (FBOs) that provide a range of services, including fueling, maintenance, and aircraft rentals. The airport also hosts flight schools, making it a popular destination for aspiring pilots. Its strategic location near major business centers and residential areas makes it an attractive option for business travelers and private aircraft owners.

PDK's economic impact on the local community is substantial, supporting numerous jobs and generating millions of dollars in revenue each year. The airport plays a critical role in facilitating business travel, enabling executives and entrepreneurs to reach their destinations quickly and efficiently. In addition to its economic contributions, PDK also provides valuable services to the community, including emergency medical transport and disaster relief operations. The airport is committed to safety and environmental stewardship, implementing programs to minimize noise and reduce its environmental footprint. As the Atlanta region continues to grow, PDK will undoubtedly remain an important asset, providing essential aviation services to businesses and individuals.

2. Cobb County International Airport (RYY)

Also known as McCollum Field, Cobb County International Airport (RYY) is another significant general aviation airport in the Atlanta area. Situated in Kennesaw, northwest of the city, RYY serves a diverse range of users, including corporate aircraft, private pilots, and aviation enthusiasts. The airport features a modern terminal building, multiple FBOs, and a variety of amenities to support its operations. RYY is also home to several flight schools and aircraft maintenance facilities, making it a hub for aviation training and services.

RYY's location in Cobb County, one of the fastest-growing areas in metro Atlanta, makes it an important economic engine for the region. The airport supports numerous businesses and jobs, contributing to the area's economic vitality. RYY is also actively involved in community outreach, hosting events and programs to promote aviation education and awareness. The airport is committed to providing a safe, efficient, and customer-friendly environment for its users. With its ongoing investments in infrastructure and services, RYY is well-positioned to meet the growing aviation needs of the Atlanta region.

3. Gwinnett County Airport (LZU)

Located in Lawrenceville, northeast of Atlanta, Gwinnett County Airport (LZU), also known as Briscoe Field, is a general aviation facility that serves the growing needs of Gwinnett County and the surrounding areas. It caters primarily to corporate and private aircraft, offering a convenient alternative to Hartsfield-Jackson for those seeking a more streamlined and personalized experience. LZU features a modern terminal building, multiple FBOs, and a range of services to support its operations. The airport is also home to flight schools and aircraft maintenance facilities, contributing to the local aviation community.

LZU's location in Gwinnett County, one of the most populous and economically dynamic counties in Georgia, makes it an important asset for the region. The airport supports numerous businesses and jobs, contributing to the area's economic prosperity. LZU is committed to providing a safe, efficient, and customer-focused environment for its users. With its ongoing investments in infrastructure and services, LZU is well-positioned to meet the growing aviation needs of the Atlanta region.

So, How Many Airports Are There?

Okay, let's bring it all together. While Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is the primary commercial airport serving Atlanta, there are also several other general aviation airports in the metropolitan area, including:

DeKalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK)
Cobb County International Airport (RYY)
Gwinnett County Airport (LZU)

So, to answer your question directly: While there's one major international airport (ATL), there are at least three other significant general aviation airports in the Atlanta metropolitan area. These airports collectively contribute to the region's aviation infrastructure, supporting a wide range of needs, from commercial passenger travel to corporate aviation and flight training.

Why So Many Airports Matter

You might be wondering, “Why does Atlanta need so many airports?” Well, the answer lies in the city's role as a major economic and transportation hub. Hartsfield-Jackson handles a massive volume of passenger traffic, but it can't cater to every type of aviation need. The general aviation airports provide essential services for corporate travel, private pilots, and flight training, relieving some of the pressure on ATL and ensuring that all segments of the aviation community are well-served. The presence of multiple airports also enhances the region's resilience, providing alternative options in case of disruptions or emergencies.

Final Thoughts

So, next time you're flying into or out of Atlanta, remember that you're not just experiencing one airport, but a whole network of aviation facilities that keep the region connected to the world. Whether it's the bustling terminals of Hartsfield-Jackson or the smaller, more specialized services of the general aviation airports, each facility plays a vital role in supporting Atlanta's vibrant economy and diverse community. Safe travels, guys!