Lehigh Valley Airport Now Breaks Passenger Traffic Record, Boosting Local Tourism

Published on December 25, 2025

Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) has accomplished a tremendous feat as it experienced the busiest November in the past twenty years. During the month of November 2025, a total of 86,801 passengers passed through the airport, a rise of 8.8% compared to the corresponding year in 2024. This is the largest traffic reported at Lehigh Valley International Airport during the month of November since 2004, declared a press release by Lehigh-Northampton Airport Authority. The rise in air traffic at Lehigh Valley International Airport is a national trend as airports are preparing for a busy holiday travel season.

The rising passenger figures recorded at Lehigh Valley International Airport are a positive indication of growth and a continuing trend of recovery in the air transport market in the region. Such a trend clearly signifies the importance of the Lehigh Valley International Airport to the region in terms of providing air transport services to the local and as well as foreign population.

Record-Breaking Passenger Traffic Highlights Airport’s Recovery

Thomas R. Stoudt, the Executive Director of the Lehigh-Northampton Airport Authority, emphasized the significance of this record-breaking traffic surge, saying, “Travel industry forecasts pointed to one of the busiest holiday seasons on record at airports nationwide. We’ve experienced this firsthand with the steady rise in passenger activity at ABE.” Stoudt’s statement underscores how the ongoing recovery from the pandemic has fueled a return to pre-pandemic levels of travel, with Lehigh Valley International Airport becoming a key player in the region’s transportation infrastructure.

The rise in passenger traffic reflects broader trends in the travel industry, where demand for air travel continues to grow as tourists and business travelers alike return to the skies. Lehigh Valley International Airport’s ability to manage this increased traffic efficiently is a testament to its ongoing improvements in customer service, airport facilities, and overall operations.

Airlines’ Performance: Allegiant Leads the Growth, But Mixed Results for Others

While the overall passenger numbers have risen significantly, individual airline performance at Lehigh Valley International Airport showed mixed results. Allegiant Air, a major low-cost carrier at the airport, led the growth with a 20.5% increase in passengers. This growth can be attributed to the airline’s competitive pricing and increasing demand for affordable travel options. Allegiant’s success reflects a growing trend toward budget airlines as passengers seek more cost-effective travel options.

American Airlines also saw a 6.5% increase in passengers, demonstrating that demand for air travel continues to rise across different carrier options. However, not all airlines performed as well. Delta Airlines saw a 3.9% decline in passenger numbers, while United Airlines experienced a more significant 23.3% drop in passengers compared to November 2024. These mixed results indicate varying levels of demand across different airlines and highlight the competitive nature of the aviation industry as it continues to recover from the challenges posed by the pandemic.

Lehigh Valley’s Growing Air Cargo Market: A Boost for Local Economy

In addition to the surge in passenger traffic, Lehigh Valley International Airport also saw a significant increase in air cargo activity. The airport processed 22,033,758 pounds of air cargo in November 2025, marking a 4.4% increase over the same period in 2024. This growth in air cargo volume reflects the growing demand for goods and services transported via air, which is essential for the region’s businesses, including manufacturing, retail, and logistics.

The expansion of air cargo at Lehigh Valley International Airport is crucial for the local economy. As businesses rely more on rapid and efficient transportation networks, the ability to ship goods quickly through the airport boosts regional economic activity. The increased cargo volumes also support job growth in logistics and related sectors, further contributing to the airport’s role as an economic driver for the Lehigh Valley region.

Upcoming Fear of Flying Seminar and Other Passenger Support Initiatives

To further support travelers, Lehigh Valley International Airport is offering a Fear of Flying Seminar on January 6, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM. This seminar is designed to assist passengers who may experience anxiety or fear about flying, providing them with tools and strategies to manage their concerns. As more people return to air travel, initiatives like this seminar help ensure that travelers feel comfortable and confident when navigating airports and flights.

Travel Tips for Upcoming Holiday Season

With the holiday travel season in full swing, Lehigh Valley International Airport is reminding passengers to be prepared for the increased travel volume. The TSA recommends that travelers bring REAL ID-compliant documents to checkpoints, as well as ensure that any liquids, aerosols, and gels in carry-on bags are in containers of 3.4 ounces or less. These guidelines are part of ongoing efforts to expedite the security process, ensuring that passengers can move through the airport with minimal delay.

For those traveling with gifts, the TSA advises using gift bags or boxes with removable lids, as wrapped presents may be required to be opened during security screenings. These small preparations can help ensure a smoother, less stressful airport experience during the busiest travel times of the year.

Impact of Increased Traffic on Tourism and Local Businesses

The significant rise in passenger traffic at Lehigh Valley International Airport has a direct impact on tourism and local businesses in the region. As more visitors travel to the Lehigh Valley, they contribute to the growth of the hospitality sector, including hotels, restaurants, and other tourism-related services. The influx of tourists is expected to boost local businesses, providing a much-needed economic boost, particularly during the winter holiday season.

Local tourism organizations are likely to benefit from increased awareness of the Lehigh Valley as a travel destination. The region offers a range of attractions, including cultural landmarks, outdoor activities, and seasonal events, all of which can appeal to visitors arriving through the airport. The continued growth of air travel at ABE opens up opportunities for the region to attract even more tourists in the future.

A Positive Outlook for Lehigh Valley International Airport

The record-breaking passenger traffic seen at Lehigh Valley International Airport during November is an important step into the post-pandemic recovery of travel-related activities for that region. Given that there is rising demand for passenger travel as well as cargo transport, this airport is an important catalyst for this development.

As the flight industry finds ways to adjust to new flight patterns and as a new wave of travelers seeks out easier and less expensive ways to reach this region, the strategic geographical advantage and new services will ensure continued importance at Lehigh Valley International Airport. With new additions such as the Fear of Flying Seminar and new emphasis on efficiency, Lehigh Valley International Airport has a promising future ahead of it.