Ontario Airport Celebrates Record 2025 with International Travel Surge
Ontario International Airport (ONT) has achieved a remarkable milestone, surpassing seven million passengers in 2025. This record marks the airport’s fifth consecutive year of growth following the pandemic. Situated in Southern California, ONT is increasingly recognized as a vital hub for both domestic and international travelers.
Record Year for International Travel at Ontario Airport
International travel surged at Ontario International Airport, with 567,000 international passengers recorded in 2025. This figure reflects an impressive 29.2% increase from the previous year, demonstrating a revitalization in air travel, especially from Latin America and Asia. The total passenger count exceeded 7.1 million, marking a notable achievement since the airport came under local control in 2016.
Key Factors Driving Growth
- Expanded nonstop service to various Latin American and Asian destinations.
- Enhanced customer service and state-of-the-art infrastructure.
- Transition of U.S. Customs and Border Protection operations to improve service efficiency.
Alan D. Wapner, President of the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA), expressed pride in these achievements. He emphasized ONT’s growing role as a competitive alternative to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), which has long dominated the regional market.
Infrastructure Improvements to Support Demand
As passenger numbers climbed, Ontario International Airport invested in its infrastructure. Key enhancements included:
- Two new passenger lounges.
- A duty-free retail store.
- Upgraded dining and retail options within the terminal.
These improvements reflect ONT’s commitment to enhancing the traveler experience for both international and domestic passengers.
Regional Demand Fuels Airport’s Success
ONT’s growth signifies strong regional demand for air travel services. Since transferring to local control in 2016, passenger volume has increased by 67%. Daily flight departures also rose from 58 to 90, solidifying the airport’s position as the second-most popular mid-sized airport in Southern California.
Bright Prospects for the Future
As Ontario International Airport celebrates its Decade of Local Control, its outlook remains positive. Projections indicate continued growth in both passenger counts and cargo volume. In 2025, air cargo tonnage increased by 5.3%, further establishing the airport as a key hub for air cargo in Southern California.
Overall, Ontario International Airport plays a critical role in the transportation landscape of Southern California. Its ongoing developments highlight its commitment to meeting the needs of a growing international traveler base while providing excellent service.
