Ontario International Airport Reports 1% Growth in Passenger Traffic for 2025, Despite September’s Modest Decline in Numbers

Published on October 24, 2025

Ontario International Airport (ONT) has reported a positive growth trajectory for 2025, with a 1% increase in passenger traffic and an impressive 8% rise in air cargo volumes during the first nine months of the year. A total of 5.2 million passengers passed through the airport, reflecting a steady recovery and an ongoing upward trend. The latest figures underscore ONT’s position as a key gateway in Southern California, with a steady increase in international travel and a growing focus on air cargo operations.

The September 2025 report revealed a slight dip in overall passenger volume with a 1.1% decrease from the same month last year, but the airport remains 28% above pre-pandemic levels—the highest growth among California’s top ten largest airports. Despite the slight setback, ONT continues to demonstrate resilience and strong demand for both domestic and international flights. Notably, the airport has also achieved a remarkable milestone in air cargo, with tons of cargo increasing by 1.1%, marking 15 consecutive months of growth.

Through its robust passenger service and cargo operations, Ontario International Airport continues to provide vital connectivity to the region, fostering both business and leisure travel while improving its standing among airports in North America.

Ontario International Airport Key Statistics for September 2025

• Passenger Traffic: The total number of passengers for September 2025 stood at 599,086, marking a decrease of 1.1% compared to the same month in 2024.
• Domestic Traffic: Domestic travel accounted for 554,651 passengers, a decline of 3.6% year-over-year.
• International Traffic: However, international travel saw a remarkable increase, with 44,435 passengers, an impressive 45.7% rise from the previous year.
• Year-to-Date Figures: For the first nine months of 2025, the airport served 5,278,316 passengers, representing a 0.8% increase from the previous year.

The Growth of Cargo Operations at Ontario International Airport

• Cargo Volumes: The airport’s air cargo tonnage for September increased by 1.1%, with total cargo tonnage reaching 65,587 tons.
• Freight and Mail: Although freight declined by 3.9%, mail volume surged by 38.8%, reflecting a shift in logistics patterns and increasing demand for mailing services through the airport.
• Year-to-Date Cargo Growth: For the year, ONT reported 8.2% growth in cargo volumes, continuing its positive momentum.

Top Air Carriers Serving Ontario International Airport

Ontario International Airport remains a key hub for domestic and international flights, with several major airlines leading the charge in passenger volumes. The top five carriers based on passenger volume for September 2025 are:

1. Southwest Airlines: 37.4% market share
2. American Airlines: 14.4% market share
3. United Airlines: 10.6% market share
4. Delta Air Lines: 9.8% market share
5. Frontier Airlines: 9.6% market share

These carriers contribute significantly to the air traffic at ONT, with Southwest Airlines leading the market in the region.

Looking Ahead: Ontario International Airport’s Resilience and Future Growth

Despite the slight drop in passenger numbers for September 2025, Ontario International Airport remains a central player in Southern California’s air travel network. The airport’s resilience and continued growth in both passenger and cargo traffic highlight its critical role in the region’s transportation infrastructure. CEO Atif Elkadi expressed confidence in the airport’s future, stating, “Fifty-four months of consecutive growth is something few airports can claim, and this is simply the beginning of our next bold chapter of more records to break.”

Key Strategic Developments to Watch

• Expansion and Upgrades: Ontario International Airport is expanding its services, with plans to enhance passenger experience and cargo operations to meet growing demand.
• Cargo Innovation: With the increase in air cargo, the airport is likely to see more partnerships with logistics and freight companies, fostering further growth in the sector.
• New Passenger Services: Ontario International Airport is working to introduce new destinations and improve the quality of its services, ensuring it remains competitive among airports in California and the U.S..

Ontario International Airport (ONT) has continued its positive growth trajectory in 2025, marking a key milestone in passenger traffic and air cargo volume. In the first nine months of the year, the airport welcomed 5.2 million passengers, reflecting a 1% increase over the previous year. Notably, international passenger traffic surged by 17%, highlighting the growing appeal of ONT as a hub for global travelers. While domestic traffic saw a slight dip, overall, the airport’s resilience and commitment to growth have remained unwavering. In addition, air cargo volumes also experienced an 8.2% year-over-year increase, driven by a 38.8% rise in mail volume.

September 2025 marked a slight decrease of 1.1% in passenger traffic compared to the same month in 2024, which ended a streak of 54 consecutive months of growth. This minor dip in overall traffic was offset by a significant increase in international travel, which rose by 45.7%. Despite this slight setback, the airport remains 28% above pre-pandemic levels, demonstrating its continued importance in Southern California’s aviation landscape.

The air cargo sector continues to show strength, with a 1.1% increase in cargo tonnage in September 2025, marking the 15th consecutive month of growth. This includes a 38.8% surge in mail volume, further establishing ONT as a critical logistics hub in the region. The decline in freight tonnage by 3.9% was offset by the rise in mail and increased overall cargo volume.

Ontario International Airport Key Traffic and Cargo Statistics (September 2025)

Conclusion: Ontario International Airport’s Growing Impact on the Southern California Economy

Ontario International Airport continues to play a pivotal role in the Southern California economy, with its increased passenger traffic and growing air cargo volumes. Despite the minor decline in passenger figures for September 2025, the airport has remained strong, maintaining growth levels above pre-pandemic numbers. The 8% rise in cargo tonnage demonstrates ONT’s strong position as a critical logistics hub in Southern California.

As the airport prepares for continued growth, it is positioned to meet the needs of an expanding regional economy, offering greater connectivity and enhanced services to travelers and businesses alike. Ontario International Airport’s strategic focus on international travel and cargo growth ensures its resilience, and its future in Southern California’s transportation network looks brighter than ever.