Passenger numbers at Ontario International Airport (ONT) in February grew by 9%, extending its run of year-over-year increases to 36 consecutive months, airport officials announced.
Last month ONT welcomed 413,413 domestic passengers and 36,480 international fliers, increases of 5.7% and 68.3%, respectively.
Continuous Growth Trajectory
ONT witnessed a further 9% increase in air travelers in February as the Southern Californian gateway’s growth streak continues.
This marks an impressive run of 36 consecutive months of year-over-year growth. This meteoric rise reinforces ONT’s status as the airport of choice for both domestic and international travelers.
February Passenger Statistics
In February alone, ONT welcomed a total of 413,413 domestic passengers and 36,480 international fliers. This reflected increases of 5.7% and a staggering 68.3%, respectively.
These figures not only demonstrate ONT’s appeal to local travelers but also its growing popularity among international visitors.
Year-to-Date Performance
The momentum has continued into the first two months of the year. In February, ONT’s overall passenger count soaring by 9.2% to surpass the 919,000 mark.
Notably, domestic travelers saw a 5.2% increase, while international passenger numbers surged by nearly 80%. This robust performance underscores ONT’s resilience and sustained growth trajectory.
Recognition in Satisfaction Study
ONT’s commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by its top ranking in the prestigious J.D. Power 2023 North America Airport Satisfaction Study.
This accolade further cements ONT’s reputation as a leading airport renowned for its customer-centric approach and operational efficiency.
Key Factors Driving Growth
Local Ownership and Stellar Performance
Since its transition to local ownership in 2016, ONT has experienced a remarkable resurgence, surpassing pre-pandemic passenger levels and achieving its highest volumes since 2008.
This success underscores the importance of community-led initiatives in revitalizing airport infrastructure and services.
Strategic Location and Economic Impact
Situated in the heart of Southern California’s fastest-growing population and economic center, ONT plays a pivotal role in connecting millions of travelers to their destinations.
With the Inland Empire emerging as the 12th largest metropolitan area in the U.S. and a hub of job creation, ONT serves as a critical gateway for both business and leisure travelers.
Cargo Operations and Global Connectivity
Beyond passenger traffic, ONT’s cargo operations remain robust, with freight shipments witnessing a steady increase of over 4% in February.
As the 9th largest cargo airport in the United States, ONT serves as a vital hub for global supply chain networks, facilitating the seamless movement of goods and bolstering international trade.
Summary
February 2024 has seen the Southern Californian gateway’s traveler count increase again by 9% year on year. A transition to local ownership in 2016 appears to have been a catalyst for growth and success.
Ontario International Airport (ONT) is the fastest growing airport in the United States, according to Global Traveler, a leading publication for frequent fliers.
Located in the Inland Empire, ONT is approximately 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles in the center of Southern California.
It is a full-service airport which offers nonstop commercial jet service to two dozen major airports in the U.S., Mexico, Central America and Taiwan.
Click the banner to subscribe to our weekly newsleter.
Click the photo to join our WhatsApp channel so then you can stay up to date with everything going on in the aviation industry!
