
The Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is a major hub for American Airlines and covers a huge area. At 17,207 acres, it is the second-largest airport in the US by land area, and larger than Manhattan in New York City. DFW is located between Dallas and Fort Worth in Texas and serves as a gateway to the world for the North Texas region.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Total area | 17,207 acres |
Area in sq. mi. | 26.89 sq. mi. |
Area in sq. km. | 69.63 sq. km |
Real property | 17,183 acres |
Year opened | 1974 |
Number of terminals | 5 |
Number of gates | 174 |
Number of runways | 7 |
What You'll Learn
DFW Airport is larger than Manhattan
DFW Airport, or Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, is located in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex in Texas. It is the second-largest airport in the United States by land area, covering 17,183 acres according to the airport's official website, or 17,207 acres according to other sources. With a land area of 26.89 square miles, DFW Airport is larger than Manhattan, which covers 22.66 square miles.
Manhattan is one of the five boroughs of New York City and is the smallest of the five, both in terms of land area and population. It is an island bordered by the Hudson, East, and Harlem Rivers and is the most densely populated borough, with over 1.6 million residents. Despite its small size, Manhattan is considered the heart and soul of New York City and is renowned for its iconic skyline, bustling streets, cultural institutions, and global financial center status.
In contrast, DFW Airport is a major economic generator for the North Texas region, contributing over $37 billion to the local economy each year. The airport serves more than 73 million customers annually and offers nonstop flights to numerous domestic and international destinations.
The size of DFW Airport is a testament to its importance as a transportation hub and economic center. Its vast acreage accommodates the numerous terminals, runways, and other infrastructure necessary to support its high volume of flights and passengers. The airport's location between Dallas and Fort Worth allows it to serve a large population and facilitate travel across the region.
While Manhattan may be smaller in size, it is known for its urban density and dynamic energy. Despite being just 13.4 miles long and 2.3 miles wide at its widest point, Manhattan is one of the most densely populated places on Earth, with a density of 72,918 people per square mile. This contrast in size and character between DFW Airport and Manhattan highlights the unique characteristics of each place and their significance within their respective regions.
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It is the second-largest airport in the US by land area
The Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is a massive airport. It covers an area of 17,207 acres, or 26.89 square miles, making it the second-largest airport in the US by land area. To put that into perspective, DFW is larger than the island of Manhattan in New York City.
The airport is located roughly halfway between the major cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, in Texas, and includes portions of the cities of Irving, Euless, Grapevine, and Coppell. It has its own zip code, 75261, and its own city designation, "DFW Airport, TX". It even has its own police, fire protection, and emergency medical services.
DFW is a major hub for American Airlines, which is headquartered near the airport. The airport serves more than 73 million customers annually and offers flights to 191 domestic and 67 international nonstop destinations worldwide.
The airport first opened in 1974, and at the time, it was the biggest airport in the world by land area. Today, it is still one of the busiest airports in the world by aircraft movements and passenger traffic.
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The airport has its own ZIP code
The Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is located in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex in Texas. Covering 17,207 acres, it is the second-largest airport in the US by land area. Due to its size, the airport has its own ZIP code, 75261, and its own city designation, "DFW Airport, TX".
The airport's ZIP code is unique to its location and reflects its status as a major transportation hub. The ZIP code helps in the efficient delivery of mail and packages to the airport and ensures that it stands out as a distinct destination.
Having its own ZIP code is just one aspect that sets DFW Airport apart. The airport also has its own police, fire protection, and emergency medical services, providing a comprehensive range of essential services for visitors and employees.
The airport's vast size and range of facilities contribute to its unique position. With five terminals, 174 gates, and a semi-circular design, DFW Airport minimises the distance between parking and aircraft. This design enhances the efficiency of travel and reduces traffic congestion within the airport grounds.
In addition to its physical infrastructure, DFW Airport offers a wide range of destinations for travellers. With 191 domestic and 67 international nonstop destinations, it provides a comprehensive travel network for its customers. This extensive reach solidifies the airport's status as a significant transportation hub.
The airport's history also contributes to its distinct character. Opening in 1974, DFW Airport became the largest airport in the world at the time. Today, it remains a pivotal transportation hub, serving over 73 million customers annually and contributing over $37 billion to the local Texas economy.
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DFW Airport is carbon neutral
Covering 17,183 acres of land, the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is the second-largest airport in the United States by land area. It is also the first carbon-neutral airport in North America and the largest in the world to achieve this status.
A Holistic Approach to Sustainability
DFW Airport has implemented a holistic approach to sustainability, focusing on economic viability, operational efficiency, natural resource conservation, and social responsibility. The airport has aligned all its sustainability practices under one umbrella, including the transition to renewable energy sources and the implementation of programs to reduce energy consumption.
Reducing Carbon Emissions
DFW Airport has made significant progress in reducing its carbon emissions. Since 2010, the airport has achieved an 83% reduction in carbon emissions per passenger and an overall 32% reduction in electricity costs. The airport aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2030, two decades ahead of the United Nations' global target.
Energy Efficiency Initiatives
DFW Airport has invested in energy efficiency initiatives, such as transitioning its compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicle fleet to renewable natural gas (RNG), generated from methane captured at local landfills. This initiative has resulted in cost savings of approximately $1 million annually and reduced fleet emissions. The airport has also transitioned to LED lighting, reducing electricity consumption and costs.
Water Conservation and Waste Management
DFW Airport has implemented water conservation measures, such as using reclaimed water for irrigation, reducing potable water use by over 100 million gallons per year. The airport also focuses on waste management, achieving a 99% diversion rate of construction materials associated with the Runway 17C rehabilitation project, contributing to its zero-waste goal.
Collaborating for Impact
DFW Airport recognizes the importance of collaboration and has partnered with various organizations to advance its sustainability goals. The airport works with the regional clean air partnership, Air North Texas, to improve air quality and promote clean air choices. Additionally, DFW Airport is a member of The Good Traveler program, which allows passengers to offset the carbon impact of their flights by purchasing carbon credits.
A Commitment to Continuous Improvement
DFW Airport is committed to continuous improvement and has set ambitious targets for sustainability. The airport is constructing a new Central Utility Plant that will use zero-carbon electricity for heating. Additionally, the airport is working with data scientists from the United States Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and the Oak Ridge National Laboratory to leverage advanced technologies for a more sustainable future.
In conclusion, DFW Airport's journey towards carbon neutrality demonstrates its commitment to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and operational efficiency. Through innovative initiatives, collaborations, and a holistic approach to sustainability, DFW Airport is leading the way in the aviation industry's efforts to reduce carbon emissions and create a more sustainable future.
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It is the third busiest airport in the world by aircraft movements
The Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is a major hub for American Airlines, which is headquartered near the airport. DFW is located between the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, in Texas, and serves the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and the North Texas region. The airport covers 17,183 acres, or 26.89 square miles, making it the second-largest airport in the United States by land area.
DFW is one of the busiest airports in the world by aircraft movements and passenger traffic. In 2022 and 2023, it was ranked as the third-busiest airport in the world by aircraft movements, serving over 80 million passengers annually. The airport offers a wide range of destinations, with 191 domestic and 63 to 67 international nonstop destinations worldwide. This extensive network of flights has contributed to DFW's high ranking in terms of aircraft movements.
The airport's location and efficient infrastructure also play a role in its high volume of aircraft movements. DFW is located in a central region of the country, making it an ideal hub for connecting flights and offering convenient connections to various destinations. The airport's design, with semicircular terminals and efficient people mover systems, facilitates the smooth movement of aircraft and passengers.
In addition to its aircraft movements, DFW also handles a significant number of cargo operations. The airport serves as a cargo gateway, connecting North Texas to the world. This includes cargo operations by major carriers such as China Airlines, Lufthansa Cargo, and others.
DFW's status as one of the world's busiest airports has had economic benefits for the region. The airport contributes significantly to the local economy, generating over $37 billion in economic impact annually. This includes the creation of jobs, business opportunities, and the attraction of corporations and business leaders who value the airport's connectivity.
In summary, DFW Airport's vast acreage, central location, efficient infrastructure, and role as a cargo gateway contribute to its ranking as the third busiest airport in the world by aircraft movements. With continued growth and expansion projects, DFW is expected to maintain its position as a global aviation hub.
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Frequently asked questions
DFW Airport covers 17,183 acres, according to the airport's official website. Other sources state the area as 17,207 acres.
DFW Airport is the second-largest airport in the US by land area, after Denver International Airport.
DFW Airport is larger than the island of Manhattan.
Construction of the airport took five years, from 1969 to 1973.