Ontario International Airport's Summer Travel Outlook
Ontario International Airport (ONT), a prominent gateway in Southern California, is gearing up for a busy summer travel season, expecting to serve
2.22 million passengers. This forecast reflects a
1.7% increase from the previous year, largely driven by airlines adding flights to 12 popular destinations, both domestic and international.
A Warm Welcome Awaits Travelers
As summer approaches, the ONT officials are confident about welcoming travelers with an enhanced experience. Atif Elkadi, the CEO of Ontario International Airport Authority, stated, "Our airport continues to earn the trust of both passengers and airline partners by delivering a world-class, stress-free experience that reflects the spirit of our community." With a wider array of flights and destinations, ONT is committed to strengthening its position in the region's air travel landscape.
The
summer travel season kicks off on
Friday, May 23, coinciding with the Memorial Day weekend, and will run through
Labor Day on
September 1.
Passenger Volume Estimates and Seat Availability
The estimated volumes include:
- - 663,959 passengers in June
- - 672,034 in July
- - 671,274 in August
Anticipating more travelers, airlines will offer over
2.8 million seats this summer, a
3.4% increase compared to last year. Elkadi mentioned that approximately
77.8% of these seats are expected to be filled. This increase in capacity highlights the airport's growth and its strategic role in facilitating travel.
Expanding Flight Options
To accommodate the growing demand, ONT will see new service introductions, restorations, and enhancements with a variety of airlines serving 12 domestic and international destinations, including:
Domestic Destinations
- - Baltimore/Washington (BWI): Daily service starting June 5 with Southwest Airlines.
- - Chicago/O'Hare (ORD): Daily service commencing May 22 by United Airlines.
- - Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW): Seven daily flights up from six with American Airlines.
- - New York (JFK): JetBlue resumes daily service starting April 30.
- - Sacramento (SMF): Southwest Airlines increases to seven daily flights from five.
- - Salt Lake City (SLC): Delta Air Lines increases flights to 4 daily from 3.
- - Seattle (SEA): Alaska Airlines and Frontier Airlines will enhance services.
International Destinations
- - Guadalajara, Mexico (GDL): Volaris resumes two daily flights, up from one.
- - León, Mexico (BJX): Starts three-times weekly service by Volaris on July 4.
- - Los Cabos, Mexico (SJD): Volaris begins daily service starting July 4.
- - Taipei (TPE): STARLUX Airlines will initiate four-times weekly service starting June 2.
Enhancements for Travelers
ONT is not just increasing its flight offerings but is also focused on enhancing the travel experience. Some key features include:
- - Curbside access for ride-sharing services to make arrivals and departures more convenient.
- - Access to premium Aspire Lounges.
- - 3Sixty Duty-Free shopping to provide travelers with various choices.
- - Competitive parking options, including hourly, daily, and valet parking near terminals, and discounts for pre-booked parking.
Travelers should also remember the
Real ID requirement deadline for domestic flights, which is set for
May 7, 2025.
Conclusion: The Best Launchpad for Southern California Adventures
During the summer, Southern California transforms into a vibrant haven for tourists and locals alike. Elkadi emphasizes that Ontario International Airport is the ideal starting point for various adventures: from the world-famous beaches to scenic mountain getaways and lively cultural spots, ONT provides direct access to all the attractions that make this region a premier global destination.
About Ontario International Airport
Ontario International Airport (ONT) is recognized as California's top mid-sized airport, based on J.D. Power's recent
North America Airport Satisfaction Study. Located approximately
35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles, it boasts nonstop commercial jet service to two dozen major airports across the United States, Mexico, Central America, and Taiwan.