Airports 2012
Airports data reveals the number of airports in each country. Compare nations, explore rankings, and see trends with interactive maps.
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Complete Data Rankings
Analysis: These countries represent the highest values in this dataset, showcasing significant scale and impact on global statistics.
- #213
Tuvalu - #212
Saint Barthélemy - #211
Sint Maarten (Dutch part) - #210
Saint Helena - #209
Saint Martin (French part) - #208
Nauru - #207
Niue - #206
Malta - #205
Montserrat - #204
Mayotte
Context: These countries or territories have the lowest values, often due to geographic size, administrative status, or specific characteristics.
Analysis & Context
The United States leads the world in the number of airports with a staggering 15,079 facilities as of 2012. Globally, the count ranges from a minimum of 1 to this high, with an average of 217.85 airports per country. This year, the median number of airports worldwide was 42, providing a clearer perspective on distribution across different nations.
Concentration of Airports in Large Geographies
The sheer number of airports in the United States can be attributed to its vast geographic area, extensive domestic travel network, and a strong economy supporting aviation infrastructure. Similarly, Brazil, with 4,105 airports, benefits from a large landmass and a growing economy that demands robust connectivity between its regions. In contrast, smaller nations like Niue, Malta, and Brunei Darussalam, each with just 1 airport, highlight how geographic and economic constraints limit the number of airports.
Economic Growth and Airport Expansion
Countries with burgeoning economies often see a rise in the number of airports as part of their infrastructure development. Chile experienced the most significant increase, adding 110 airports, representing a 30.1% growth, likely due to its economic expansion and increased focus on tourism and trade. Venezuela also saw an increase of 83 airports, reflecting efforts to improve domestic connectivity amidst economic challenges. Conversely, South Sudan, despite its smaller base, saw a 250% increase, adding 60 airports, indicative of post-independence development efforts.
Decline in Airport Numbers
While some countries expanded, others experienced reductions in airport numbers. Colombia saw the most significant decrease, losing 128 airports, a 12.9% reduction, possibly due to economic constraints or shifts in transportation policy. Mexico and Guatemala also experienced declines, with reductions of 95 and 81 airports, respectively. These changes may reflect economic adjustments or a strategic consolidation of airport facilities to improve efficiency.
Regional Patterns and Strategic Development
In examining regional trends, Canada and Argentina stand out with 1,453 and 1,149 airports, respectively, showcasing their strategic emphasis on aviation to bridge vast distances and support economic activities in remote areas. Bolivia and Paraguay, with 865 and 800 airports, reflect similar strategies to enhance connectivity in geographically challenging regions. This pattern underscores how geographic and economic factors drive airport development, with countries investing in infrastructure to support regional integration and economic growth.
The 2012 data on airports reveals distinct patterns influenced by geographic size, economic status, and strategic priorities. Countries with extensive land areas and growing economies tend to have more airports to support domestic and international travel. Meanwhile, economic shifts and policy changes can lead to fluctuations in airport numbers, as seen in both expansions and reductions across different nations.
Insights by country
Switzerland
In 2012, Switzerland ranked #78 globally with 64 airports. This number is relatively low compared to its European neighbors, such as France, which has over 150 airports. The country's mountainous geography limits airport construction, while its efficient public transport system reduces reliance on air travel, emphasizing connectivity over quantity.
Ecuador
In 2012, Ecuador had 431 airports, ranking #20 out of 213 countries. This number is significantly higher than many of its regional neighbors, reflecting the country's diverse geography and the necessity for air travel in remote areas. The extensive network of airports supports both tourism and the export of goods, particularly from the agricultural sector, which is vital to Ecuador's economy.
Lesotho
In 2012, Lesotho ranked #129 globally with a total of 24 airports. This figure is relatively low compared to neighboring South Africa, which has a significantly higher number of airports. The limited number of airports in Lesotho can be attributed to its mountainous terrain and relatively small population, which constrains the demand for air travel and infrastructure investment.
Argentina
In 2012, Argentina ranked #6 globally with 1,149 airports, a significant figure that underscores its extensive aviation infrastructure. This number is notably higher than many of its South American neighbors, reflecting Argentina's vast geographic landscape and the need for connectivity across its diverse regions. The country’s focus on enhancing transportation networks, coupled with its large land area and population distribution, drives the high number of airports, facilitating both domestic travel and international trade.
Belize
In 2012, Belize ranked #99 globally with a total of 43 airports. This number is relatively low compared to regional neighbors like Guatemala, which has a more extensive airport network. Belize's airport infrastructure is influenced by its small population and geographic size, as well as its focus on tourism, which drives the need for air travel connectivity.
United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates ranked #102 globally with 42 airports in 2012. This number is relatively low compared to regional neighbors like Saudi Arabia, which has a more extensive network of airports to support its larger land area. The UAE's strategic investments in aviation infrastructure, particularly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, have positioned it as a major global transit hub, driving tourism and trade in the region.
Côte d'Ivoire
Côte d'Ivoire ranked #122 globally with 27 airports in 2012. This number is below the regional average for West Africa, reflecting the country's development stage in comparison to more developed neighbors like Ghana, which has invested significantly in its aviation infrastructure. The relatively low number of airports can be attributed to Côte d'Ivoire's focus on improving road networks and economic recovery efforts following civil unrest, which has impacted investment in air transport facilities.
Brazil
In 2012, Brazil ranked #2 globally with 4,105 airports, trailing only the United States. This extensive network of airports reflects Brazil's vast geography and significant domestic travel demand, which is driven by its large population and diverse economic activities. Additionally, Brazil's investment in infrastructure and tourism development has facilitated greater connectivity across its regions.
Samoa
Samoa ranked #181 globally with 4 airports in 2012. This number is relatively low compared to many Pacific island nations, which often have limited air traffic infrastructure. The small population and geographic isolation of Samoa contribute to fewer airports, as the demand for air travel is lower than in larger countries.
South Korea
In 2012, South Korea had 114 airports, ranking #50 globally out of 213 countries. This number is significant, especially when compared to neighboring Japan, which has a similar geographic profile but fewer airports per capita. The country's robust economy, driven by its advanced technology sector and international trade, necessitates a well-developed air transport infrastructure to facilitate both passenger and cargo movement.
Data Source
CIA World Factbook
The World Factbook, also known as the CIA World Factbook, was a reference resource produced by the US Central Intelligence Agency between 1962 and 2026 with almanac-style information about the countries of the world. From 1971 it was not classified, and available to the public in print since 1975, initially by the CIA, and later the Government Publishing Office.
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