What percentage of U.S. enplanements do large hubs account for?

Large hubs in the U.S. account for a significant share of total enplanements, which refers to the number of passengers boarding flights. The correct answer indicates that these hubs dominate a substantial portion of overall air travel activity, specifically around 70% or more of the national total.

This high percentage reflects the concentration of air traffic within a limited number of airports, which are classified as large hubs based on the volume of enplanements. Large hubs are typically located in major metropolitan areas and serve as critical connecting points for both domestic and international flights.

Understanding the importance of this statistic is crucial for airport and aviation management because it influences resource allocation, scheduling, and strategic planning in the aviation industry. Additionally, it impacts how airlines may prioritize their services and routes, as well as how federal policies and funding might be directed toward infrastructure at these key airports. The underlying trends in passenger behavior—favoring large, efficient hubs for both direct and connecting flights—further support this figure.