Ontario International Airport Sees Record Passenger and Cargo Growth in First Half of 2026 — Ontario International Airport Authority

Event summary

Ontario International Airport (ONT) welcomed over 3.4 million passengers in the first half of 2026, a 1.9% increase from 2025 and the highest half-year total since local ownership.
International passenger traffic surged by 45.7% year-to-date, while domestic traffic declined slightly by 1.5%.
Air cargo tonnage increased by 7.6% year-to-date, with freight volumes up 11.2% and mail volumes down 10.3%.
Southwest Airlines held the largest passenger share at 36.5%, followed by American Airlines (14.4%) and Alaska Airlines (10.7%).

The big picture

Ontario International Airport's record half-year performance underscores its growing significance as a Southern California gateway, particularly in international travel and cargo logistics. The airport's strategic location and operational excellence continue to attract major airline partners, positioning it as a key player in the region's aviation and supply chain ecosystems.

What we're watching

International Growth: Whether Ontario International Airport can sustain its international passenger growth amid competitive Southern California market dynamics.
Cargo Expansion: The pace at which ONT can capitalize on its cargo volume increase to solidify its role as a global supply chain hub.
Domestic Traffic: How the slight decline in domestic passenger traffic will affect overall airport performance and strategic partnerships with airlines.