#United States #Ontario #Southern California #Ontario Airport #passenger growth

Ontario International Airport Achieves Record Passenger Growth in 2025

In 2025, Ontario International Airport (ONT) emerged as a front-runner in air travel, recording an impressive total of over 7.1 million passengers. The surge in international travel was a significant driver behind this impressive milestone, highlighted by a remarkable increase in international travelers, specifically from Latin America and Asia. The recent data released by the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) underscores ONT's transformation into a pivotal global gateway for the Los Angeles area.

A Year of Milestones

ONT welcomed 567,000 international passengers in 2025, marking an approximately 30% increase compared to 2024. This growth contributes to the airport's fifth consecutive year of post-pandemic recovery, setting new benchmarks since it came under local control in 2016. Alan D. Wapner, President of the Ontario International Airport Authority Board of Commissioners, emphasized the airport’s role as a critical hub for Southern California, noting the region's need for multiple global gateways to accommodate its status as the second-largest air travel market in the United States.

Expanding Offerings for Travelers

The success of ONT isn't limited to the number of passengers. The airport also improved its facilities and services significantly. The number of nonstop passenger destinations expanded from 13 to 31, paired with daily flight departures increasing from 58 to 90. As a recognition of its commitment to enhancing customer experience, ONT opened two new passenger lounges, introduced a duty-free store, and upgraded dining and retail options, ensuring travelers enjoy a world-class experience.

The growth metrics are indeed impressive: a 0.4% increase in overall passengers compared to 2024, with 6.5 million domestic passengers and 566,923 international travelers. This ongoing upward trend in international travel is crucial as ONT positions itself to meet the rising demands of air travelers in Southern California.

Enhancing Security and Customs Services

A notable development for ONT included its designation as a Landing Rights Airport by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This transition marks a strategic upgrade, allowing CBP to enhance its service levels at the airport, previously reliant on fees from airlines for operational funding. Such steps further solidify ONT’s capabilities in handling international traffic, contributing to smoother travel experiences for passengers.

Cargo Services on the Rise

While passenger numbers soar, ONT also witnessed a notable uptick in air cargo. The total air cargo tonnage grew by 5.3% year over year, largely due to an increase in U.S. mail carried by UPS Airlines. Notably, mail shipments doubled, despite a slight decline in commercial freight volumes. The increase in air cargo tonnage reinforces ONT's reputation as a premier cargo destination in Southern California, a point that CEO Atif Elkadi proudly highlighted.

Looking Ahead

As Ontario International Airport (ONT) celebrates a decade of local control, its achievements underscore a thriving future in air travel. With the airport improving its offerings and setting new records in both passenger and cargo volumes, it is well-poised to sustain this momentum. The regional airport now stands as a beacon of convenience and enhanced service capabilities, ready to cater to the increasing global travel demands. For travelers and cargo shippers alike, ONT is not just an airport but a vital link connecting Southern California to the world.

For more information, check www.flyOntario.com or follow them on social platforms under @flyONT.