Ontario International Airport Sees 3.7 Percent Growth in Passenger Traffic as New Year Kicks Off with Record International Arrivals

Ontario International Airport (ONT) in California has experienced an impressive 3.7% increase in passenger traffic during January 2026. The airport’s growth pathway demonstrates its strong expansion which leads to this operational achievement. The airport serves as Southern California’s second most popular airport which achieved its first operational milestone after local control returned to its management in 2016.

A key contributor to this growth was the surge in international travel, with Ontario International’s international passenger numbers soaring by 64% compared to January 2025. This significant rise saw more than 66,000 international passengers using the airport, setting a new record for the facility. Domestic travel saw a slight dip, falling by 1.9% to over 426,000 passengers, yet overall traffic growth remained positive.

The record international growth was bolstered by new routes and services, particularly the launch of daily nonstop flights between Ontario and Boise, Idaho, courtesy of Alaska Airlines. This move reflects the airport’s ongoing efforts to increase connectivity and serve an expanding passenger base.

Strong Growth in International Traffic

The substantial 64% increase in international traffic, with Ontario International Airport accommodating over 66,000 international travelers, illustrates the growing appeal of this gateway for global travellers. The airport’s increasing prominence is evident as more passengers opt for Ontario as a departure point for international destinations. January 2026 marked the highest volume of international travellers in the airport’s history, surpassing the previous record set just the month before in December 2025.

This growth aligns with Ontario’s strategic vision to enhance its global connectivity, furthering its status as a top-tier travel hub in Southern California. With service to key destinations in Mexico, Central America, Taiwan, and major U.S. cities, Ontario is attracting a diverse range of international passengers. This is part of a broader trend where airports with greater accessibility to underserved routes are seeing robust growth in international travel.

Continued Expansion in Domestic and Air Cargo Services

Ontario International’s domestic travel, although seeing a minor dip, remains solid with over 426,000 passengers. The ongoing focus on strengthening passenger services, both for domestic and international routes, continues to make the airport a primary choice for travellers within the Southern California region.

Moreover, the airport is seeing growth in air cargo operations, with commercial freight increasing by 9.3%. This boost in freight is particularly important as Ontario establishes itself as a key air cargo hub, providing ample capacity and modern infrastructure to handle increased demand. This growth in cargo tonnage reflects a larger trend where airports with expansive infrastructure are capitalising on rising demand for airfreight, crucial for economic growth and global supply chains.

Implications for Travellers

For travellers, Ontario International’s continued growth means increased flight options, more routes, and better access to international destinations. The launch of new routes like those to Boise, Idaho, provides travellers with even more choices, making it easier to connect to major destinations. The increasing number of international flights is expected to not only serve leisure travellers but also benefit business and trade sectors, enhancing Southern California’s global reach.

Ontario International Airport’s Promising Future

Ontario International Airport is setting the stage for another successful year in 2026, supported by continued growth in passenger volume and international traffic. The airport’s record-breaking start to the year, alongside the expansion of services, indicates a strong future for both travellers and airlines. With nearly 70% growth since it came under local control, Ontario International is firmly positioned as a premier gateway for air travel in Southern California, offering travellers access to a growing range of destinations and services.

The constant rise of both passenger traffic and air cargo services demonstrates that Ontario International Airport serves as an essential component of the area’s travel network and economic development framework. The airport expansion enables Southern California travelers to access better services while establishing itself as a major airport within the regional aviation system.

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