Ontario International Airport Experiences Significant Passenger Growth in February 2026

Ontario International Airport Reports Impressive Passenger and Cargo Growth

Ontario International Airport (ONT) has celebrated a remarkable rise in passenger numbers for February 2026, highlighting a 6.3% year-over-year increase. The airport also reported a substantial 10.3% growth in cargo shipments during the same period. These figures reinforce ONT’s position as a key travel hub in Southern California's Inland Empire region.

In total, over 478,000 travelers passed through Ontario International Airport last month. This total comprises a domestic travel count of approximately 433,094 passengers, which represents a modest increase of 2.1%. However, it is the international passenger segment that saw the most astonishing growth, soaring by 55.1% to reach 55,531 travelers.

As of the beginning of this year, ONT has catered to more than 971,000 passengers, marking a 5% increase compared to the same period last year. Domestic travel numbers have remained stable, reporting 849,708 passengers—a figure largely similar to the previous year. In contrast, international travel has surged to 121,812, demonstrating a 60% increase year-on-year.

"As we approach a decade under local ownership, ONT has transformed into a gateway that reflects our community's growth and vibrancy," stated Atif Elkadi, Chief Executive Officer of the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA). "Our commitment to enhancing accessibility and simplifying the travel experience continues to resonate with both travelers and airlines, solidifying our vital role in connecting Southern California with the world."

The data further reveals that Southwest Airlines led the way in passenger numbers at ONT with a towering 35.4% share, followed by American Airlines at 17.0% and Alaska Airlines at 10.6%. Other airlines contributing significantly to passenger traffic included Delta Air Lines and United Airlines, with respective shares of 9.0% and 8.9%.

In addition to passengers, air cargo operations at ONT also thrived. The overall air cargo volume escalated by 10.1% in February, with commercial freight observed to rise by 13.1%. However, mail volume saw a slight decline of 5.4%.

Elkadi emphasized the airport's position as a major player in air cargo by stating, "As one of the top ten air cargo hubs equipped with world-class facilities, we take pride in ensuring outstanding service to our shipping partners when immediate solutions are needed."

Located about 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles, Ontario International Airport ranks as the second most popular mid-sized airport in the United States according to J.D. Power's latest North America Airport Satisfaction Study. ONT serves as a full-service airport, providing nonstop service to more than twenty major destinations across the United States, Mexico, Central America, and Taiwan.

Reflecting its ongoing commitment to the community, the OIAA was formed in August 2012 through a joint agreement between the City of Ontario and the County of San Bernardino to oversee the airport's management, operations, and marketing. The leadership team includes notable figures such as Ontario Mayor Pro Tem Alan D. Wapner and San Bernardino County Supervisor Curt Hagman.

For more updates, travelers can visit www.flyOntario.com or follow ONT on social media across various platforms including Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram.