Are Airports Open 24/7 in the United States and UK ? Airports in the United States and the United Kingdom operate 24/7, but the level of activity and services available during nighttime hours can vary. Major international hubs such as Los Angeles International (LAX), John F. Kennedy (JFK), Heathrow (LHR), and Gatwick (LGW) maintain round-the-clock operations due to the global nature of air travel. These airports accommodate international arrivals, cargo flights, and emergency landings at all hours. However, not every facility within the airport remains open. Security checkpoints, food courts, and retail outlets may have limited hours or close entirely during late-night periods. Some airports, especially regional or smaller ones, may shut down certain terminals or limit operations at night. Despite this, essential services like air traffic control and emergency response remain active. Travelers planning overnight stays should research specific airport policies. Many airports offer designated sleeping areas or chairs for travelers in transit, while others might discourage overnight stays. For example, Heathrow enforces stricter overnight terminal policies compared to the more lenient approach of airports like Denver International. In summary, while airports in both countries technically operate 24/7, the availability of services varies significantly. It’s wise for travelers to confirm operational details beforehand, especially during off-peak hours.