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DFW Airport’s Economic Impact on North Texas

Aerial view showing DFW Airport with planes, taxiways, and Dallas skyline.

Dallas, Texas, December 4, 2025

DFW International Airport is contributing significantly to the North Texas economy with an annual impact of over $78 billion. This represents a dramatic increase from $46.4 billion reported in 2014. The airport’s growth has created thousands of jobs and enhanced fiscal contributions to the community, alongside ongoing infrastructure investments for future improvements. The study emphasizes the airport’s crucial role in local business vitality and economic prosperity.

DFW Airport Drives $78.3 Billion Economic Impact Annually

Discover how DFW International Airport is bolstering the North Texas economy with expanded contributions and growth projections.

Dallas, Texas – DFW International Airport has soared to new economic heights, contributing over $78 billion annually to the North Texas economy, a notable increase from $46.4 billion reported in 2014. The airport’s remarkable growth emphasizes its vital role as a cornerstone of economic development in the region and highlights the resilience of local businesses benefiting from its operations.

The recent study detailing the airport’s economic impact showcases the symbiotic relationship between an airport and the surrounding community, hinting that a favorable regulatory environment fosters business innovation and expansion. Local entrepreneurs have leveraged this growth to create jobs and enhance regional prosperity, which can serve as a model for continued economic success in the area.

Key Findings of the Economic Impact Study

  • Gross Product Increase: The airport’s gross product has appreciated by nearly 69% since 2014, reaching $78.3 billion in 2024.
  • Total Expenditures: Economic activity associated with DFW Airport escalated from $87 billion in 2014 to $146 billion in 2024, showcasing a 68% increase.
  • Employment Growth: Direct and indirect employment supported by the airport grew from 508,000 jobs to 684,000, indicating a 35% increase, with 50,600 of these jobs being direct airport employment.
  • Personal Income: Personal income derived from airport-related activities surged from $28.3 billion in 2014 to $47.7 billion in 2024, an impressive increase of nearly 69%.

Fiscal Contributions to the Community

The vibrant economic activity spurred by DFW Airport translates into significant fiscal contributions to the community. Estimates suggest that DFW’s operations contribute over $14 billion in federal taxes, $5 billion in state taxes, and $3.4 billion for local taxing entities per year, all of which underscore the airport’s essential role in supporting local government funding and services.

Ongoing Infrastructure Investments

To sustain its upward trajectory, DFW Airport is embarking on a $12 billion capital improvement program, which includes enhancements such as new gates and infrastructure upgrades, including the new Terminal F. This ambitious initiative is projected to generate nearly $5 billion in additional local, state, and federal taxes upon completion while fostering the creation of thousands of new jobs and further enhancing regional economic productivity.

Background on DFW International Airport

Since its inception in 1974, DFW International Airport has rapidly evolved into the world’s third-busiest airport, servicing over 87.8 million passengers last year alone. Currently, it provides access to 193 domestic and 67 international nonstop destinations, effectively enriching both local and global air travel networks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the current annual economic impact of DFW International Airport on the North Texas economy?

The airport now contributes over $78 billion annually to the North Texas economy, marking a significant increase from $46.4 billion in 2014.

How many jobs does DFW Airport support in the region?

DFW Airport supports more than 684,000 jobs across the region, including over 50,600 direct jobs at the airport.

What are the fiscal contributions of DFW Airport to the community?

The economic activity generated by DFW’s operations is estimated to generate more than $14 billion in federal taxes, $5 billion in state taxes, and $3.4 billion for local taxing entities annually.

What infrastructure projects is DFW Airport currently undertaking?

DFW Airport is undertaking a $12 billion capital improvement program, including projects on the airfield, new gates, other facility improvements, and the new Terminal F, expected to generate nearly $5 billion in additional local, state, and federal taxes upon completion.

How many passengers does DFW International Airport serve annually?

DFW International Airport serves over 87.8 million passengers annually, making it the world’s third-busiest airport.

Key Features of DFW International Airport’s Economic Impact

Feature Details
Annual Economic Impact Over $78 billion
Gross Product Increase (2014-2024) 69% increase from $46.4 billion to $78.3 billion
Total Expenditures Increase (2014-2024) 68% increase from $87 billion to $146 billion
Employment Growth 35% increase from 508,000 to 684,000 jobs
Personal Income Increase (2014-2024) 69% increase from $28.3 billion to $47.7 billion
Federal Taxes Generated Annually Over $14 billion
State Taxes Generated Annually $5 billion
Local Taxes Generated Annually $3.4 billion
Capital Improvement Program $12 billion
Additional Taxes from Capital Program Nearly $5 billion upon completion
Annual Passengers Served Over 87.8 million

In conclusion, with DFW International Airport’s notable contributions to the North Texas economy and its significant plans for future improvements, the outlook for local business growth is encouraging. Residents and local leaders alike are encouraged to support this vital economic engine as it continues to enhance job opportunities and regional prosperity.

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STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER

The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.

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