February 16, 2025
Ontario International ONT Sees a Record of Over 7 Million Passengers in 2024

Ontario International ONT Sees a Record of Over 7 Million Passengers in 2024

Ontario International Airport (ONT) marked a historic achievement in 2024, serving more than 7 million passengers across the year.
Air travel passengers in Ontario International Airport.
Photo Credit: Ontario International Airport

Ontario International Airport (ONT) marked a historic achievement in 2024, serving more than 7 million passengers across the year.

The performance record was announced during the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) Board meeting on 23 January 2025. This milestone spotlights the airport’s remarkable growth trajectory and strengthening position in Southern California’s aviation landscape.

Ontario ONT 2024 Performance


The airport recorded a total of 7,084,864 passengers throughout 2024. This represents a 10.2% increase from 2023 and a substantial 27% growth compared to pre-pandemic 2019 levels.

This performance established ONT as California’s fastest-growing airport among medium and large-sized facilities.

Even more impressive is the 67% passenger volume increase since 2016, when the airport transitioned from Los Angeles city control to local management.

Passengers in Ontario International Airport
Photo Credit: Ontario International Airport

Domestic Travel Plays Key Role

Domestic travel played a crucial role in this success, with 6,645,968 passengers representing a 10.5% year-over-year increase.

International traffic also reached new heights at 438,896 travelers, marking a 5.1% rise and setting a record in the airport’s history.

December 2024 maintained this strong momentum with 603,886 passengers. This marked the 46th consecutive month of year-over-year growth and the eighth straight month exceeding 600,000 passengers.

Factors Contributing to Success


OIAA Board President Alan D. Wapner attributed this remarkable growth to several key factors. Firstly, he cited the robust economic and population expansion in the Inland Empire. This was coupled with strong airline partnerships, and the airport’s commitment to delivering world-class service.

While other California airports continue struggling to recover their pre-pandemic passenger volumes, ONT has flourished. It has established itself as a preferred gateway for Southern California travelers.

Photo Credit: Ontario International Airport

Airline Performance

The airport’s success is reflected in its diverse airline portfolio, with Southwest Airlines leading at 35.9% market share. This was followed by American Airlines (15.7%), Frontier Airlines (14.6%), Delta Air Lines (10.1%), and Alaska Airlines (7.3%).

This competitive mix of carriers has helped drive growth while providing passengers with extensive flight options and destinations.

Cargo Operations

Cargo operations further solidified ONT’s position as a leading logistics hub. The combined air freight and mail volume growing 5.5% compared to 2023, reaching its highest level since the pandemic-driven surge.

December cargo operations showed continued strength with a 4% year-over-year increase.

Exterior of Ontario International Airport
Photo Credit: Ontario International Airport

Acknowledging LA Wildfires


During the January board meeting, OIAA officials also addressed their response to recent Los Angeles County wildfires. ONT demonstrated its strategic importance by serving as a crucial alternative landing site for flights diverted from smoke and wind-affected airports in Burbank, Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego.

CEO Atif Elkadi emphasized the airport’s pride in supporting regional air travel safety during this challenging period. Meanwhile, President Wapner expressed deep sympathy for fire victims and affected communities.

Looking Ahead


Looking ahead, ONT’s record-breaking performance in 2024 positions the airport for continued growth and success in serving Southern California’s expanding air travel needs.

With a base of consistent growth, the airport also looks set to continue its commitment to operational excellence and customer satisfaction.

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