The Airbus A-380 landed at DFW airport Thursday direct from London for the first time since March of 2025.
DALLAS — The world’s largest passenger aircraft touched down at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport from the United Kingdom for the first time in more than a year Thursday, as the airport braced for a record-breaking Memorial Day travel period expected to bring approximately 1.6 million passengers through its terminals.
The British Airways Airbus A380 — a double-deck widebody jet capable of carrying hundreds of passengers — resumed its regular route from London Heathrow to DFW, arriving to the delight of a crowd of plane spotters, children, and aviation enthusiasts who gathered specifically to witness the return.
Qantas flies the jumbo jet on its route to Australia from DFW airport, but British Airways hasn’t flown the route since March 2025.
DFW Airport officials say they expect roughly 1.6 million customers between May 21 and May 26, representing an increase of approximately 5.8 percent over the same period last year. Peak congestion is anticipated on Friday, May 22 and Monday, May 25, with the busiest activity on roadways and terminal curbs expected between 9 and 11 a.m. and again between 6 and 8 p.m.
Among those on hand for the A380’s arrival was Claudia Sayers, a self-described plane spotter who photographs aircraft at DFW. She was not catching a flight — she was there exclusively for the moment.
“It’s the biggest passenger airplane in the world,” Sayers said.
She acknowledged the timing was no accident. “The World Cup has to do with it, to get the ball rolling so to speak,” she said with a laugh, suggesting the sporting event helped prompt British Airways to restore the route.
Sayers said she had anticipated the crowd. “I told you there’s probably a few people who come out today to see the plane land,” she said.
For Sayers, the return of the aircraft also coincides with what she sees as an unmistakable surge in holiday travel. “It was already filling up,” she said. “Holiday travel is starting big time. So it’s perfect timing for British Airways to bring back the big plane and fly people here.”
When the aircraft finally appeared on approach, Sayers’ reaction was unfiltered. “Oh there she is,” she said, pointing out it gave her goosebumps. “Welcome back, British,” she said as it touched down.
Airport officials are urging travelers to plan ahead during the busy period. Customers are advised to arrive at least two hours before domestic departures and three hours before international departures, and to allow extra time for roadway traffic, parking, and security screening. The DFW Airport mobile app provides real-time parking availability and TSA wait times. Additional travel tips are available at DFWAirport.com/summer.
Construction remains ongoing near several terminals. American Airlines passengers departing from Terminal C can avoid construction by checking in at Terminal A and using the Skylink train to reach their gates. Terminal D’s North Exit has reopened, and Terminal C’s new right-hand access is now fully operational for travelers arriving from the south.