Southwest Florida International Airport Sets Traffic Record with More than Seven and a Half Passengers in this October, Reflecting Eighteen Growth in U.S. Travel Demand

Published on December 2, 2025

Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), governed by the Lee County Port Authority in the United States, reached an all-time high this year with 774,689 passengers traveling through the airport last October 2025. Compared to October 2024, traffic went up by 18%, putting RSW in one of the top ranks in the United States. The robust demand shows the continued growth of United States travel and the rise in prominence of RSW as a crucial gateway for both domestic and international tourists.

The record numbers of passengers at RSW point to the resilience and recovery of the post-pandemic U.S. tourism industry, as travelers make their way to top destinations, such as Southwest Florida, in growing numbers. This also reflects the wider travel growth across the U.S., driven by both tourism and business travel.

Key Airlines Contributing to Record-Breaking Passenger Traffic

The impressive surge in passenger traffic can be attributed to the strong performance of several major airlines operating at RSW. According to the Lee County Port Authority, the top five airlines carrying passengers through the airport in October 2025 were:

1. Delta Airlines – 171,055 passengers
2. Southwest Airlines – 163,266 passengers
3. United Airlines – 120,101 passengers
4. American Airlines – 106,602 passengers
5. JetBlue – 67,561 passengers

These airlines, along with RSW’s expanded route network, contributed to the significant increase in U.S. travel to Southwest Florida. With airlines offering more direct flights and expanded services, the airport is providing travelers with greater connectivity to domestic and international destinations, making it an increasingly popular travel hub.

Tourism Growth Driving Economic Impact in Southwest Florida

The growth in tourism at Southwest Florida International Airport is having a profound economic impact on the region. With 774,689 travelers passing through the airport in October, the tourism sector is contributing significantly to the local economy in Lee County, Florida. The increase in passenger numbers supports key sectors such as hospitality, transportation, and tourism services, driving job creation and business growth.

The tourism sector’s growth is particularly notable in Southwest Florida, where major destinations like Fort Myers, Cabo Coral, and Naples are increasingly attracting both domestic and international visitors. This surge in travel has created employment opportunities in hotels, restaurants, local shops, and transportation services, helping local businesses thrive and generating tourism revenue for the region.

RSW’s Role in Regional and U.S. Travel Growth

The record traffic numbers at RSW reflect a broader trend of increased demand for domestic air travel in the U.S. This aligns with the nationwide travel growth observed since the lifting of pandemic restrictions. As Southwest Florida continues to grow in popularity as a tourism destination, RSW is contributing to the economic development of the region by providing air connectivity to major U.S. cities and international locations.

In addition to increasing tourist arrivals, RSW is playing a key role in enhancing regional connectivity, providing easier access to Florida’s tourism offerings. As demand for air travel grows, the airport is ensuring it can accommodate more passengers and continue supporting the region’s tourism-driven economy.

Increased Tourism Impact on Local Communities and Job Creation

The increase in passenger traffic at RSW has a multiplier effect on the local economy. As more visitors arrive in Southwest Florida, demand for local services such as restaurants, tour guides, transportation, and souvenir shops increases, benefiting small businesses and generating additional revenue for the community. Moreover, the growing number of tourists is creating job opportunities in the hospitality and tourism industries, from hotel staff to service providers in tourism attractions.

The economic impact of tourism extends beyond just the airport, fostering a more sustainable and diverse tourism ecosystem in Southwest Florida. With tourism revenues steadily increasing, local communities can invest in further developing their infrastructure, creating a positive feedback loop that supports long-term economic growth and community development.

Looking Ahead: Continued Growth for RSW and the U.S. Tourism Sector

Looking forward, Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) is well-positioned to continue benefiting from the growing demand for U.S. travel. As tourism recovery continues, RSW is expected to see even more growth in the coming months, thanks to its expanded services and improved air connectivity. The airport is continually upgrading its infrastructure to meet the increasing tourism demands and provide visitors with the best possible experience.

The tourism growth at RSW is part of a larger trend in U.S. travel, where domestic tourism is experiencing a resurgence. With more international visitors discovering Southwest Florida and an increasing number of domestic tourists seeking affordable vacation options, RSW’s record-breaking traffic marks just the beginning of what promises to be a strong future for Florida’s tourism sector.

RSW’s Role in U.S. Tourism Recovery and Economic Prosperity

The record passenger traffic at Southwest Florida International Airport for October 2025 shows the resiliency not only of RSW but also of the U.S. tourism industry in general. Apart from boosting tourist arrivals with attendant positive impacts on local business and job opportunities, such development underpins RSW’s growing importance as a key domestic and international travel hub.

With the ongoing increase in tourism demand in Southwest Florida, RSW will continue to play a significant role in regional connectivity and growth of tourism, therefore driving economic prosperity in Lee County and beyond. Through ongoing infrastructure enhancements, RSW is poised to remain a critical asset in the U.S. tourism landscape, ensuring continued economic growth for the region and an elevated travel experience for visitors.