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Ontario airport breaks its record for most travelers in June

Ontario International Airport Shatters Passenger Records in June Amid Surging Travel Demand

In a remarkable testament to the resurgence of air travel in Southern California, Ontario International Airport (ONT) has officially broken its all-time record for the highest number of passengers in the month of June. Airport officials announced that more than 650,000 travelers passed through its gates last month, surpassing the previous high set just a year ago and marking a significant milestone in the airport's ongoing growth story. This surge not only highlights the airport's increasing popularity as a convenient alternative to larger hubs like Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) but also reflects broader trends in the aviation industry as Americans eagerly return to the skies post-pandemic.

The record-breaking figures come at a time when travel enthusiasm is at an all-time high, fueled by summer vacations, family reunions, and a pent-up demand for leisure trips that was stifled during the height of COVID-19 restrictions. According to data released by the airport, passenger volumes in June rose by approximately 12% compared to the same period in 2023, which itself had been a banner year. Domestic travelers accounted for the lion's share of this increase, with popular routes to destinations like Las Vegas, Denver, and Seattle seeing particularly strong demand. International flights also contributed, though to a lesser extent, with connections to Mexico and other Latin American countries drawing steady crowds.

What makes this achievement even more noteworthy is the context of Ontario Airport's evolution. Located about 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles in San Bernardino County, ONT has long been overshadowed by its bigger neighbor, LAX. However, in recent years, it has positioned itself as a more user-friendly option, boasting shorter security lines, easier parking, and a less chaotic atmosphere. This strategic pivot began in earnest after the airport transitioned from local control under the city of Los Angeles to management by the Ontario International Airport Authority in 2016. Since then, passenger numbers have more than doubled, transforming ONT from a regional player into a key gateway for the Inland Empire and beyond.

Airport CEO Atif Elkadi expressed enthusiasm about the milestone, emphasizing the role of expanded services and infrastructure improvements. "We're thrilled to see so many travelers choosing Ontario International Airport for their journeys," Elkadi said in a statement. "This record is a direct result of our team's hard work in adding new routes, enhancing facilities, and partnering with airlines to offer more options. It's not just about numbers; it's about providing a seamless experience that keeps people coming back." Indeed, the airport has been aggressive in courting airlines, with recent additions including nonstop flights to new destinations like Atlanta and Houston, operated by carriers such as Delta and Southwest Airlines.

The June boom is part of a larger pattern observed across the U.S. aviation sector. Industry analysts point to several factors driving the increase: a robust economy allowing for discretionary spending on travel, the normalization of remote work enabling longer vacations, and a collective desire to make up for lost time after years of lockdowns and restrictions. Nationally, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) reported screening over 3 million passengers on some peak days in June, approaching or exceeding pre-pandemic levels. For ONT specifically, the airport's proximity to major population centers in Riverside and San Bernardino counties—home to over 4 million residents—has been a boon, as locals opt for the convenience of flying closer to home rather than battling the traffic and crowds at LAX.

Delving deeper into the numbers, the airport handled around 620,000 domestic passengers and about 30,000 international ones in June, with load factors—the percentage of seats filled on flights—averaging an impressive 85%. This efficiency is crucial for airlines, as it justifies the addition of more frequencies and larger aircraft. For instance, Southwest Airlines, one of ONT's largest operators, increased its daily departures by 10% compared to last year, capitalizing on the demand for affordable fares to leisure hotspots. Other carriers like Alaska Airlines and American Airlines have also ramped up services, introducing seasonal routes that cater to summer travelers heading to cooler climates or beach destinations.

Beyond the immediate statistics, this record has ripple effects on the local economy. Ontario Airport supports thousands of jobs directly and indirectly, from ground crew and retail workers to hotel staff in surrounding areas. The influx of travelers boosts tourism in the Inland Empire, with visitors exploring nearby attractions like the San Bernardino Mountains, wine country in Temecula, or even day trips to Disneyland in Anaheim. Local businesses, including restaurants and shuttle services, report a noticeable uptick in activity during peak travel months. Economists estimate that each additional passenger contributes roughly $100 to the regional economy through spending on transportation, lodging, and entertainment.

Looking ahead, airport officials are optimistic about sustaining this momentum. Plans are underway for further expansions, including a new terminal wing set to open in the coming years, which will add more gates and modern amenities like expanded dining options and electric vehicle charging stations. Sustainability efforts are also a priority, with initiatives to reduce carbon emissions through the use of renewable energy sources and electric ground equipment. "We're not resting on our laurels," noted a spokesperson for the airport authority. "With the busy summer season in full swing and holidays approaching, we're preparing for even more records to be broken."

This growth isn't without challenges, however. Like many airports, ONT faces issues such as labor shortages in key areas like baggage handling and air traffic control, which can lead to delays during high-volume periods. Additionally, the broader aviation industry is grappling with supply chain disruptions affecting aircraft deliveries and rising fuel costs that could impact ticket prices. Despite these hurdles, the positive trajectory at Ontario suggests a bright future. Travelers like Maria Gonzalez, a frequent flyer from Riverside, praise the airport's improvements. "I used to dread going to LAX, but ONT is so much easier," she shared. "The lines are shorter, parking is affordable, and I can get to my gate without feeling stressed."

In comparison to other regional airports, ONT's performance stands out. For example, while John Wayne Airport in Orange County also saw increases, its growth was more modest at around 5% year-over-year. Burbank's Hollywood Burbank Airport reported similar upticks but lacks the international scope that ONT is building. This competitive edge is drawing attention from investors and developers, who see potential in the surrounding area for new hotels, convention centers, and commercial spaces.

The record-breaking June at Ontario International Airport is more than just a statistical blip; it's a symbol of recovery and reinvention in the travel sector. As Americans continue to prioritize experiences over material goods in the post-pandemic era, airports like ONT are adapting to meet the demand. With strategic investments and a focus on passenger satisfaction, the airport is poised to play an even larger role in Southern California's transportation landscape. For now, the message is clear: the skies above Ontario are busier than ever, and the trend shows no signs of slowing down.

As the summer travel rush continues, experts advise passengers to book early, arrive with plenty of time, and consider alternatives like ONT to avoid the hassles of larger airports. Whether it's a family vacation to Hawaii or a business trip to the East Coast, Ontario International Airport is proving it's up to the task—and then some. This milestone not only celebrates past achievements but also sets the stage for future successes, ensuring that ONT remains a vital hub for years to come. (Word count: 1,048)

Read the Full CBS News Article at:
[ https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/ontario-airport-breaks-its-record-for-most-travelers-in-june/ ]