Ontario International Airport Celebrates Award-Winning Open Mic Social Media Campaign: What You Need To Know

Published on December 11, 2025

Ontario International Airport (ONT), located in Southern California, has achieved national recognition for its creativity in marketing and communications by winning the prestigious 2025 ACI-NA Marketing and Communications Award for Best Social Media Campaign. This award, presented by Airports Council International-North America (ACI-NA), is a significant achievement, with ONT outshining major hub airports across the U.S. and Canada. The recognition underscores the airport’s innovative approach to engaging travelers and creating memorable experiences on social media platforms.

The Open Mic series, which has been featured prominently on ONT’s Instagram channel (@flyONT), played a key role in earning this top honor. This spirited, traveler-centered social media initiative showcases impromptu performances, spontaneous airport moments, and the unique energy of passengers passing through ONT. The series has resonated deeply with audiences, establishing ONT as one of the industry’s leading storytellers in the digital space.

Open Mic: A Creative Celebration of Travel and Community

The Open Mic series at Ontario International Airport brings together the creativity of both passengers and the airport’s marketing team. The concept was developed by Sabine West, the airport’s Social Media Specialist, and supported by Creative Producer Christopher Min and the entire Communications and Marketing team. The series is designed to showcase the energy and diversity of the airport’s travelers, capturing the authentic spirit of the ONT experience.

With its focus on real, unfiltered moments, the Open Mic series has created a strong connection with viewers, positioning ONT as a relatable and engaging destination for both travelers and social media audiences. The campaign demonstrates ONT’s commitment to highlighting the unique sense of place and culture that sets the airport apart from others in the region.

Additional ACI-NA Finalist Nominations for Ontario International Airport

In addition to its victory in the Best Social Media Campaign category, Ontario International Airport also earned finalist recognition in two other prestigious ACI-NA categories:

1. Radio Advertising – For the Not So Fast campaign, which emphasizes the convenience and time-saving benefits of flying from ONT.
2. Overall Public Relations Program (Medium Airports) – For the So Cal. So Easy. initiative, a community engagement effort that brings the ONT experience directly to Southern California neighborhoods and regional events.

These nominations reflect the airport’s comprehensive approach to marketing and communications, ensuring that its messaging resonates with both travelers and the broader community.

A Record Year for ACI-NA Marketing and Communications Awards

This year’s ACI-NA awards received over 400 entries, making it one of the most competitive programs in the history of the event. Ontario International Airport’s success in this competitive field highlights its ability to effectively connect with travelers and build its brand identity through innovative marketing strategies. The recognition speaks to the airport’s ongoing commitment to excellence in service and communications, further strengthening its position as a leader in the industry.

Ontario International Airport: A Growing Travel Hub in Southern California

Ontario International Airport (ONT) has become one of the most popular mid-sized airports in the United States, consistently ranking high in customer satisfaction. It serves as a full-service airport, offering nonstop commercial flights to major destinations across the U.S., Mexico, Central America, and Taiwan. ONT is located in the heart of Southern California’s Inland Empire, approximately 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles, making it an accessible and convenient airport for both leisure and business travelers.

With its commitment to improving the travel experience and providing top-tier services, ONT continues to attract global travelers, earning its reputation as the airport of choice for Southern California residents and visitors.

Ontario International Airport Sets the Standard for Airport Marketing

Ontario International Airport has set a new benchmark for creative marketing and communications in the airport industry with its Open Mic social media campaign, which earned the Best Social Media Campaign award at the 2025 ACI-NA Marketing and Communications Awards. This achievement, along with its finalist nominations in two other categories, demonstrates ONT’s innovative approach to engaging its audience and promoting its services.

As ONT continues to grow and develop as a key transportation hub in Southern California, its focus on delivering memorable and authentic experiences through social media and other marketing channels ensures it remains at the forefront of the airport industry.