10 Longest Runways in the United States 2025 highlight the massive airstrips that accommodate some of the largest aircraft in the world. Runways are critical infrastructure for airports, ensuring the safe takeoff and landing of commercial, cargo, and military planes. The length of a runway often depends on the size of aircraft it serves and the altitude and climate conditions of the airport.
In 2025, several airports across the United States boast exceptionally long runways to handle heavy aircraft, high altitudes, or adverse weather conditions. Here are the top ten longest runways in the country.
1. Edwards Air Force Base – California (15,000 feet)
Topping the list is Edwards Air Force Base, known for its massive 15,000-foot runway. Located in the Mojave Desert, this runway is primarily used for military testing and space shuttle landings. Its extraordinary length allows for high-speed aircraft testing and emergency landings.
2. Denver International Airport – Colorado (16,000 feet)
Denver International Airport is home to one of the longest commercial runways in the U.S., stretching 16,000 feet. Due to Denver’s high elevation, longer runways are essential for safe takeoffs and landings of fully loaded aircraft in thin air.
3. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport – Texas (13,401 feet)
DFW Airport has multiple long runways, with the longest measuring 13,401 feet. This length accommodates both domestic and international flights, including cargo planes. DFW’s strategic location makes it a central hub for airline operations.
4. Washington Dulles International Airport – Virginia (11,500 feet)
Dulles International Airport, serving the Washington D.C. area, features an 11,500-foot runway. It supports heavy international aircraft and provides sufficient length for long-haul flights departing to Europe, Asia, and Africa.
5. Orlando International Airport – Florida (12,005 feet)
Orlando International Airport has a 12,005-foot runway, making it ideal for large commercial jets and cargo planes. The airport’s length ensures safe operations during busy tourist seasons when heavy flights frequently arrive and depart.
6. Salt Lake City International Airport – Utah (12,000 feet)
The Salt Lake City International Airport runway stretches 12,000 feet to accommodate high-altitude takeoffs in Utah’s thin air. It serves both commercial and cargo traffic efficiently, ensuring safety during winter weather conditions.
7. Los Angeles International Airport – California (12,090 feet)
LAX features a 12,090-foot runway to manage heavy international and domestic flights. As one of the busiest airports in the U.S., this long runway helps accommodate wide-body aircraft like Boeing 747s and Airbus A380s.
8. Miami International Airport – Florida (13,000 feet)
Miami International Airport boasts a 13,000-foot runway. Its length is critical for handling international flights from Europe, South America, and the Caribbean, especially for fully loaded long-haul aircraft.
9. Chicago O’Hare International Airport – Illinois (13,000 feet)
O’Hare Airport, one of the busiest airports in the world, has a 13,000-foot runway to manage heavy air traffic. Its runways support large jets, cargo operations, and adverse weather operations throughout the year.
10. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport – Washington (11,901 feet)
Sea-Tac Airport features an 11,901-foot runway capable of accommodating large commercial and cargo aircraft. The runway supports international flights to Asia and Europe, along with domestic travel along the West Coast.
Final Thoughts On Longest Runways in the United States 2025
The 10 Longest Runways in the United States 2025 demonstrate the scale and importance of aviation infrastructure. From military bases like Edwards to major international airports like Denver and LAX, these runways ensure safe takeoffs and landings for the largest aircraft. Their length reflects careful planning to handle elevation, climate, and heavy traffic, making them critical for both commercial and military aviation.
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