#United States #Ontario #Southern California #Air Travel #Ontario International Airport

Ontario International Airport Achieves Milestone with 7 Million Passengers

In a remarkable achievement for Southern California's Ontario International Airport (ONT), the airport welcomed over 7 million passengers in 2024, a substantial growth that signifies its rising profile in the air travel industry. At a recent meeting of the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) Board of Commissioners, it was announced that 7,084,864 travelers passed through the airport, reflecting a growth of 10.2% compared to 2023 and an impressive 27% increase compared to pre-pandemic figures from 2019.

The airport has seen a remarkable resurgence since returning to local ownership six years ago, with passenger numbers soaring by 67% since that transition in 2016. According to the OIAA, this extraordinary growth positions ONT as the fastest growing medium to large airport in California, highlighting its vital role in supporting the increasing demand for air travel in the region.

Domestic and International Numbers

The rise in air travel numbers can be attributed in part to an increase in domestic travelers, which reached 6,645,968, marking a year-over-year growth of 10.5%. Meanwhile, the number of international travelers rose by 5.1%, reaching a historic high of 438,896. This surge reflects the airport's strategic efforts to enhance its appeal as a travel hub for both local and international flights.

Alan D. Wapner, President of the OIAA Board of Commissioners, expressed his excitement over this achievement, stating, "We believed the 7 million passenger mark was achievable in 2024 and indeed it was. It was a milestone year that positions our airport to handle increasing demand for air travel in the region." Wapner attributed ONT's success to the economic growth in the Inland Empire and the trust of their airline partners, as well as the commitment to providing a world-class travel experience for passengers.

Chief Executive Officer Atif Elkadi shared that December alone saw a passenger volume increase of nearly 10% from the previous year, totaling 603,886 passengers. This marked the 46th consecutive month of increasing year-over-year growth at the airport, with December also being the eighth month in a row to exceed 600,000 passengers.

Strong Cargo Performance

In addition to passenger growth, Ontario International Airport has solidified its position as a major cargo hub. The airport's air freight and mail volumes grew by 5.5% over 2023, reaching their highest levels since the pandemic, which speaks volumes about ONT's operational capabilities. December recorded a nearly 4% increase in cargo compared to the same month in 2023, a testament to the airport's status as one of the top ten cargo hubs in the U.S.

A Commitment to Community and Safety

During the board meeting, officials also offered condolences to victims of recent wildfires in Los Angeles County, showcasing the airport's dedication to community and safety. Following these fires, ONT served as a safe haven for redirected flights affected by hazardous conditions in surrounding areas, demonstrating its commitment to maintaining safe operations even in adverse circumstances.

Ontario International Airport, which is located approximately 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles, is known for its passenger-friendly services and efficient operations, earning accolades from J.D. Power's North America Airport Satisfaction Study. As ONT continues to grow, it remains a key player in the Southern California aviation landscape, providing nonstop jet services to several major airports across the U.S. and abroad.

This milestone represents not just a number but a reflection of the hard work of the staff and partners dedicated to improving passenger experiences. With ongoing economic growth and a rising population in the Inland Empire, Ontario International Airport is poised for even greater accomplishments in the coming years.