These 5 US Airports Are Surging High in Traffic Since Last 2 Years

As air travel picks up again across the U.S., a few US airports surging high are experiencing remarkable growth, even surpassing their pre-pandemic numbers. These five U.S. airports have become top destinations for travelers, as both vacation and business travel continue to evolve. With new patterns in passenger flow and airlines adapting to meet demand, these airports are breaking records and establishing themselves as major hubs. 

Here’s the list of the 5 US airports surging high in traffic over the past two years.

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

Leading the growth chart among US airports, Los Angeles International has got a stunning 26.7% increase in passenger traffic. As one of the few airports worldwide that serves as a hub for three legacy airlines: United, American, and Delta, LAX has a unique advantage. This strategic position on the West Coast, along with expanded route offerings, has driven its numbers to unprecedented levels. LAX is now the second busiest airport in the U.S., which is buzzing with travelers, only outpaced by Atlanta. This jump in traffic really shows how people’s travel patterns are changing, with airlines offering more options to cater the growing demand. 

Orlando International Airport (MCO)

With leisure travel booming post-pandemic, Orlando International has quickly climbed the ranks, marking a remarkable 15% growth year over year. As Florida’s busiest international airport, MCO has benefited significantly from budget airlines establishing key hubs here. As one of the top five U.S. airports experiencing growth, Orlando has become a prime destination for leisure travelers, reflecting the trend of off-peak and remote-worker-driven vacation travel that’s reshaping the industry.

San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

San Francisco International has experienced nearly a 20% increase in passenger traffic, driven largely by United Airlines’ aggressive hub expansion. United has focused on strengthening its West Coast presence, with San Francisco as a cornerstone of its strategy. As United strives to keep pace with Delta in profitability, its ambitious network expansion at SFO highlights the competitive dynamics among major airlines. SFO’s rising numbers make it a leading airport in 2024 for both West Coast travel and international connections.

Nashville International Airport (BNA)

Nashville International has emerged as a weekend travel favorite, with both budget and legacy airlines expanding services to meet rising demand. BNA has notably set passenger records this fall and is undergoing large-scale renovations to accommodate future growth. Its international reach is also expanding, with new routes such as Aer Lingus’ nonstop service to Dublin starting next spring. As one of the five U.S. airports experiencing rapid growth, Nashville’s transformation underscores the increasing popularity of travel to lively, cultural destinations.

Also Read : Exploring the Biggest Airports in the US

Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)

With over 20% growth, Raleigh-Durham International has become a highly competitive market for American Airlines and Delta, both holding roughly 20% market share. The airport offers nonstop flights to international locations like London and Cancun, enhancing its reputation as a growing international gateway. This expansion highlights the competitive nature of these legacy carriers in secondary hubs, adding Raleigh-Durham to the list of US airports surging high in passenger traffic.

These five US airports surging high exemplify how dynamic shifts in the airline industry are reshaping travel patterns and airport rankings nationwide. Each of these hubs has responded to new opportunities, positioning themselves as vital connection points in the evolving landscape of U.S. airports in 2024. With ongoing expansion and strategic enhancements, these airports are poised for sustained growth in the coming years.