Top 5 Busiest Cargo Airports In The U.S.
02 February 2026
| By Just Aviation TeamThe United States is home to some of the world’s most critical cargo hubs, driving global trade and supply chain efficiency. Leading the way are Memphis International Airport (MEM), Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC), Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF), Miami International Airport (MIA), and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX); each playing a unique role in the movement of goods across continents.
From MEM’s unmatched freight volumes to ANC’s strategic Arctic crossroads, these airports form the backbone of air cargo logistics. SDF powers express shipping networks, MIA connects the Americas, and LAX dominates transpacific trade. Together, they handle millions of tons of cargo annually, supporting industries, economies, and consumers worldwide. Here’s how these aviation giants keep commerce soaring.
Air Cargo Operational Comparison Across Key U.S. Hubs
This table provides a side-by-side comparison of customs, security, documentation, and perishables handling protocols at top 5 U.S. cargo airports:
| Category | MEM | ANC | SDF | MIA | LAX |
| Customs Availability | 24/7 (on-site CBP) | 24/7 (CBP pre-clearance) | 24/7 (CBP on request) | 24/7 (CBP with dedicated GA lanes) | 24/7 (CBP with GA expedited processing) |
| Cargo Acceptance Times | 24/7 | 24/7 | Limited to cargo terminal hours (e.g., 04:00–23:00) | 24/7 (pre-coordinate for GA) | 24/7 (GA: prior notice) |
| Security Requirements | TSA-approved screening; AOSSP for hazmat | TSA-regulated; CCSP for dangerous goods | TSA cargo screening; chain-of-custody protocols | TSA CCSP; agriculture x-ray for int’l inbound | TSA CCAR; CA state ag inspections |
| Key Documentation | AES filing (exports), air waybill, TSA Form 7262 (int’l), phytosanitary certs (agri) | AES, e-Manifest (Canada-bound), FAA Form 8120-7 (repairs) | AES, FDA Prior Notice (pharma), FAA Form 337 (modifications) | CITES permits (wildlife), USDA permits (plants/flowers), AES | AES, CA Dept. Food/Ag permits, FAA Form 8130-3 (parts) |
| Perishables Handling | Requires advance notice; temp-controlled storage available | Cold chain for seafood; USDA inspections on-site | Priority pharma lanes; limited cold storage (pre-coordinate) | Largest perishables hub (90% U.S. flowers); on-site USDA inspectors | Temp-controlled storage; limited capacity during peak seasons (pre-book) |
| Special Notes | Fast-track FTZ processing; minimal dwell time due to express focus | Ideal for tech stops; fuel-efficient layovers reduce payload restrictions | Express-focused; shorter dwell times but stricter cutoffs for overnight shipments | High congestion; pre-file docs for faster release; strong LatAm trade focus | Strict slot controls; delays common during rush hours; FTZ benefits apply |
1. Memphis International Airport (IATA: MEM, ICAO: KMEM)
Memphis International Airport (MEM) is a civil-military airport located 7 mi (11 km) southeast of downtown Memphis in Shelby County, Tennessee, United States. MEM stands as one of the world’s most significant cargo hubs, renowned for its exceptional freight-handling capabilities and strategic role in global logistics. Historically, MEM consistently ranked as the busiest cargo airport globally by total cargo tonnage for nearly two decades, driven by its unparalleled infrastructure and connectivity.
MEM’s Cargo Capacity, Infrastructure, and Strategic Location
While global rankings have shifted in recent years due to rising international cargo volumes, MEM remains a top-tier freight hub in the U.S., handling approximately 4.1 million metric tons of cargo annually. This volume underscores its enduring importance, supported by facilities that include expansive cargo warehouses, dedicated freight aprons, and three parallel runways—Runway 18C/36C (11,120 ft), Runway 18L/36R (9,320 ft), and Runway 18R/36L (9,000 ft)—capable of accommodating large, heavy-lift aircraft. Its central location within the U.S. further enhances efficiency, enabling rapid distribution to major cities across the country via air and ground networks.
Economic Impact and Multimodal Connectivity of MEM
MEM’s geographic position in the Mid-South region is a cornerstone of its logistical significance. Situated within a day’s drive of nearly 40% of the U.S. population, the airport serves as a critical nexus for domestic and international supply chains. This connectivity is vital for time-sensitive shipments, particularly in industries like healthcare, where temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals and medical supplies require swift, reliable transport.
MEM is a powerhouse, generating billions in annual economic impact and supporting tens of thousands of jobs in the region. Its cargo operations catalyze growth across sectors, from manufacturing to retail, by ensuring efficient movement of goods. The airport’s advanced cold-chain infrastructure and expertise in handling high-value, sensitive cargo have set industry benchmarks, attracting global logistics networks. Additionally, MEM’s integration with regional trucking and rail networks creates a multimodal ecosystem, optimizing freight transit across North America.
2. Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (IATA: ANC, ICAO: PANC)
Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) is a pivotal hub in global air cargo logistics, leveraging its unique geographic position to serve as a critical nexus between Asia, Europe, and North America. Anchorage’s location within 9.5 hours of 90% of the industrialized world makes it an ideal refueling and transit point for long-haul freighters. This allows airlines to maximize payload efficiency by carrying more cargo instead of fuel, a strategic advantage that has firmly established ANC as one of the world’s busiest cargo airports.
Traffic Volumes and Airside Infrastructure of ANC
In Fiscal Year 2025, ANC supported 5,368,921 passengers, recorded 103,849 aircraft landings, and handled 3,751,049,000 pounds of cargo. These figures highlight the airport’s continued importance to both global freight movement and passenger operations. Cargo activity is supported by extensive infrastructure, including dedicated freight facilities, cold storage for perishables such as Alaskan seafood, and three runways—Runway 7R/25L (12,400 ft), Runway 15/33 (10,600 ft), and Runway 7L/25R (10,865 ft). These runways are capable of accommodating large, fully loaded aircraft, even under extreme weather conditions.
ANC’s Role in Business Aviation and Premium Services
Beyond its cargo dominance, ANC plays an increasingly important role in business aviation. The airport serves as a key stopover for private jets and charter flights operating trans-Pacific routes. Services available include customs clearance, aircraft maintenance, and premium fueling. Its proximity to Anchorage’s business districts and recreational destinations, including remote wilderness areas popular for corporate retreats, further enhances its appeal to high-net-worth travelers. Business aviation infrastructure includes private hangars, dedicated terminals, and streamlined ground handling services designed to ensure operational efficiency and client privacy.
Economic Impact and Trade Facilitation of ANC
Economically, ANC is a cornerstone of Alaska’s economy, contributing more than $1 billion annually and supporting thousands of jobs across the region. Its cargo operations are critical for sectors such as e-commerce, manufacturing, and fisheries, enabling the rapid movement of goods between continents. The airport’s designation as a Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) increases its attractiveness to international operators by reducing tariffs and simplifying trade procedures. Continued infrastructure investments, including modernized cargo aprons and expanded cold-chain facilities, ensure ANC remains competitive as global air freight demand continues to grow.
3. Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (IATA: SDF, ICAO: KSDF)
Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) plays a vital role in global air cargo logistics, particularly in supporting high-speed, time-sensitive supply chains. In 2025, the airport recorded 189,006 aircraft operations, served 4,594,949 passengers, and handled 7,487,860,762 pounds of cargo, reinforcing its position as one of the world’s leading cargo airports. Its strategic location in the central United States enables swift overnight delivery to major population centers, making it a key hub for express shipping; especially in the e-commerce and healthcare sectors.
Cargo Facilities, Runway Capacity, and 24/7 Operations at SDF
The airport features robust cargo infrastructure, including advanced sorting facilities, cold storage for perishables such as pharmaceuticals, and three runways; Runway 17R/35L (12,000 ft), Runway 17L/35R (11,887 ft), and Runway 11/29 (7,250 ft) designed to accommodate large, fully loaded freighters. Around-the-clock operations and direct access to major interstate highways further enhance efficiency. In addition, SDF’s Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ) status provides logistical flexibility and cost-saving advantages for international cargo movements.
Business Aviation Activity and Executive Accessibility at SDF
While cargo operations dominate activity at SDF, the airport also supports a growing business aviation sector. Dedicated facilities for private and corporate aircraft include hangar space, maintenance services, and premium fueling options. Its proximity to Louisville’s corporate centers (particularly in healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics) makes it a practical choice for executives and charter operators. Business travelers benefit from streamlined access to downtown Louisville, located approximately 10 minutes from the airport, as well as proximity to major regional events such as the Kentucky Derby, which attracts significant private jet traffic each year.
Economic Contribution and Multimodal Freight Integration of SDF
Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport generates billions of dollars in annual economic impact and supports more than 20,000 jobs across Kentucky. Its cargo operations form the backbone of the region’s logistics-driven economy. Ongoing infrastructure investments, including runway modernization projects and expanded cargo aprons, ensure the airport remains competitive as global air freight demand increases. Integration with regional trucking networks and rail lines further positions SDF as a multimodal gateway, accelerating freight movement throughout North America.
4. Miami International Airport (IATA: MIA, ICAO: KMIA)
Miami International Airport (MIA) stands as a key gateway for global commerce, uniquely positioned to connect North America with Latin America and the Caribbean. In 2025, MIA served 55,314,661 passengers, supported 502,771 aircraft operations, and handled 3,448,000 tons of total cargo (freight and mail), reaffirming its role as one of the leading air cargo gateways in the United States. Its prominence in air trade is especially notable in the perishables sector, with nearly 90% of all U.S. flower imports moving through its facilities, alongside significant volumes of pharmaceuticals, electronics, and textiles.
Cargo Infrastructure and FTZ Benefits at MIA
The airport’s cargo operations are supported by specialized infrastructure such as temperature-controlled warehouses, on-site USDA inspection facilities, and a fully operational 24/7 airfield. MIA is equipped with four runways; Runway 8R/26L (10,506 ft), Runway 9/27 (13,000 ft), Runway 8L/26R (8,600 ft), and Runway 12/30 (9,354 ft) capable of accommodating heavy freighters. Its Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ) designation further boosts competitiveness through cost reductions and streamlined customs processes, solidifying its role as a dominant cargo hub in the Western Hemisphere.
Business Aviation and Executive Services at MIA
MIA supports a thriving business aviation ecosystem, catering to Miami’s role as a global financial hub. Its proximity to downtown, luxury destinations, and corporate centers attracts private jets. The general aviation terminal has expedited services, including concierge handling, customs, and private lounges. Seasonal events like Art Basel boost private jet traffic, with overflow managed at nearby airports. MIA also has maintenance and fueling services, and its four runways, including two over 13,000 feet long, accommodate various aircraft types, from jets to long-haul freighters.
Economic Impact and Cargo Significance of MIA
MIA generates over $33 billion in annual business revenue and supports more than 334,000 jobs, making it Florida’s largest economic engine. Its cargo operations sustain industries ranging from agriculture to healthcare, while its passenger and business aviation networks bolster tourism and international commerce.
5. Los Angeles International Airport (IATA: LAX, ICAO: KLAX)
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is a cornerstone of global aviation, balancing large-scale passenger traffic with extensive international cargo and business aviation activity. In 2025, LAX served 73,709,594 passengers and supported 580,996 aircraft operations, underscoring its role as one of the busiest and most strategically important airports in the world.
Multimodal Hub and Cargo Facilities at LAX
As the primary transpacific gateway for the United States, LAX benefits from close proximity to the Port of Los Angeles and major highway networks, creating a powerful multimodal hub for industries such as technology, entertainment, and agriculture. Specialized facilities (including cold storage, 24/7 customs services, and Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ) capabilities) streamline the movement of high-value goods such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, and perishables.
Generating $37+ billion annually and supporting 620,000+ jobs, LAX anchors Southern California’s economy.
These five cargo powerhouses (MEM, ANC, SDF, MIA, and LAX) drive the pulse of global logistics, ensuring seamless trade across continents. For expert flight support, cargo and baggage handling operations at these hubs and beyond, Just Aviation delivers precision and reliability, keeping your operations soaring. Trust the skies, trust Just Aviation.
Sources
https://dot.alaska.gov/aias/stat2557scascca.shtml
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ted_Stevens_Anchorage_International_Airport#Statistics
https://web.archive.org/web/20170211051258/http://lawa.org/welcome_lax.aspx?id=798
https://www.lawa.org/lawa-investor-relations/statistics-for-lax/volume-of-air-traffic
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