Miami Airport records record passenger and cargo in 2023
2023 marked a historic year of passenger and cargo traffic gains at Miami International Airport (MIA), as well as significant modernization investments and capital improvements.
Recently released audited reports confirm that MIA achieved its highest annual ridership in its history, with 52.3 million passengers in 2023, an increase of 3.2% over the previous year’s record.
In particular, international travel experienced an exceptional increase of 8.5%, reaching 23.2 million passengers, while domestic traffic, although down slightly by half a percentage point, recorded 29.1 million passengers.
The stellar passenger performance was driven primarily by American Airlines, the airport’s main carrier, which contributed significantly by moving 31.4 million passengers in 2023. The airline also demonstrated its commitment to MIA’s growth by increasing its year-over-year seat capacity by 10% over the winter, resulting in a record 390 peak-day flights.
→ New York area airports set to record passengers in 2023
In addition to record passenger traffic, MIA welcomed the launch of airline services from Volaris El Salvador, Norse Atlantic Airways and Porter Airlines, expanding its portfolio to an impressive 96 passenger and cargo airlines, the highest among all U.S. airports.
Cargo operations recorded 1% growth in 2023 to reach a record 2.78 million tons. This achievement was driven by 2.2 million tons of international cargo and 548,976 tons of domestic shipments. Additionally, 2023 marked the third consecutive year in which MIA handled more than 2.7 million tons of cargo.
Amid the passenger milestones, MIA also received historic investments in its infrastructure and maintenance needs through 2023 from an unprecedented $7 billion Capital Improvement Program and a $1.7 billion modernization plan.
“As MIA continues to set new benchmarks, the airport remains dedicated to providing unprecedented service, connectivity and economic contributions to the region,” said Ralph Cutié, MIA Director and CEO.
Looking ahead to 2024, MIA anticipates continued passenger growth with American Airlines launching new routes to Governor’s Harbour, Bahamas, and Ocho Rios, Jamaica, among others. Additionally, foreign-flag low-cost airlines Condor Airlines, LEVEL, and Viva Aerobus will begin operations at MIA, further enhancing the airport’s global connectivity. In April, the airport is set to welcome its 40th all-cargo carrier, China Cargo Airlines, further strengthening its position as a key player in global air cargo.
Capital investments and maintenance upgrades at MIA this year are set to elevate the airport’s infrastructure and enhance the overall traveler experience.
Noteworthy initiatives include the groundbreaking this month for a state-of-the-art $136 million parking garage, boasting 2,200 spaces to substantially augment parking accessibility for both travelers and employees; a comprehensive overhaul to replace all airline ticket counters between concourses F and H; integrating cutting-edge biometric boarding technology at all 60 gates in Concourse D; the modernization of 38 elevators, escalators, and moving walkways; and the revamping of 30 bathrooms and 10 passenger boarding bridges across the entire airport.
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