Ontario International Airport (ONT) has set a remarkable record in 2025, welcoming over 7 million passengers. This achievement signifies the airport’s continued growth over five consecutive years since the pandemic. Its strategic location in Southern California has positioned it as a vital hub for both domestic and international journeys amidst a surge in global travel.
Record-breaking Passenger Volume
In 2025, Ontario International recorded a staggering 567,000 international passengers, a nearly 30% increase from the previous year. The total passenger count exceeded 7.1 million, marking the highest traffic level since the airport switched to local control in 2016. This growth highlights Ontario’s capacity to meet increasing travel demand, especially as other California airports continue to recover from pandemic disruptions.
International Travel Growth
The surge in international travel at ONT is attributable to expanded nonstop services to key destinations in Latin America and Asia. As reported by the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA), the international passenger count grew by 29.2% in 2025. This growth underscores ONT’s emergence as a competitive alternative to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), which has historically dominated the region’s international air traffic.
Alan D. Wapner, President of the OIAA, expressed pride in the airport’s achievements and its dedication to providing world-class customer service and modern infrastructure. These enhancements position Ontario as a significant gateway for international travel.
Infrastructure Developments
In response to the surge in passenger numbers, Ontario International Airport has made significant investments in its infrastructure. Recent upgrades include:
- Two new passenger lounges
- A duty-free retail store
- Enhanced dining and shopping options
These improvements aim to enhance the travel experience for both international and domestic passengers. Additionally, the airport’s transition to Landing Rights Airport status has allowed U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to better accommodate the increase in international flights, facilitating efficient processing services.
Growing Regional Demand
The rapid growth of passenger and cargo traffic at Ontario International Airport reflects strong regional demand. Since its transition to local control in 2016, passenger volume has surged by 67%, with daily flight departures rising from 58 to 90. This growth has firmly positioned ONT as Southern California’s second-most popular mid-sized airport, offering service to various destinations in the U.S., Mexico, Central America, and Taiwan.
A Promising Future
Looking ahead, Ontario International is poised for continued success, with expected growth in both passenger traffic and cargo volumes. In 2025, air cargo tonnage rose by 5.3%, supported by a considerable increase in UPS Airlines’ mail volumes. Ontario has solidified its role as a crucial hub for air cargo in Southern California, enhancing its overall significance in the regional transportation network.
As ONT enters its second decade of local control, it is set to play a critical role in shaping the future of travel in Southern California. With ongoing expansions and record-breaking travel figures, Ontario International Airport remains an essential alternative for travelers, enhancing access and choice in an evolving aviation landscape.
