San Antonio International Airport Sets New Travel Records on Independence Day

San Antonio International Airport witnessed a significant surge in passenger numbers during the Independence Day holiday period. Over the course of Friday through Tuesday, more than 162,000 people traveled through the airport, surpassing the previous holiday weekend four years ago when almost 152,000 passengers were recorded. This record-breaking trend is not limited to the 4th of July; the airport also experienced a remarkable Memorial Day weekend, with an 11 percent increase in travelers compared to the same period in 2019.

The airport has been steadily recovering from the pandemic-induced slump, with 2019 marking its busiest year, serving over 10 million passengers. The positive trajectory has continued into 2023, and the airport is on track to have its busiest summer ever. In fact, travel figures in the fall of 2022 came close to matching 2019's totals for the same period, and this year's passenger totals are already surpassing the figures from 2019.

The surge in passenger numbers can be attributed to San Antonio's reputation as an entertainment destination and the ongoing population growth in the region. As a result, the airport's geographic reach has expanded, attracting travelers from a wider area.

While the increase in travel is a positive development, it has also posed challenges for the city-owned facility, particularly in terms of parking. The airport's parking garages frequently reach capacity, leading to the utilization of overflow parking spaces and additional lots. In response to heavy holiday travel, 1,000 overflow spaces were opened by the end of 2022. Currently, around 700 overflow spaces are in use, and the airport has had to rely on overflow parking multiple times a week since Memorial Day.

Despite the parking strain, Airport Director Jesus Saenz expressed that the airport was well-prepared to handle the surge in travelers. Moreover, plans are underway for a comprehensive 20-year expansion project, which includes a new terminal, additional parking facilities, and other significant improvements. The $2.5 billion expansion aims to address the growing demands of the airport and support the increasing passenger numbers. To meet immediate demand until the new terminal opens in 2028, officials are also working on constructing a 37,000-square-foot ground loading facility for passengers.

Next Article