Long Beach Airport (LGB) recorded its highest monthly passenger traffic in May, with 189,435 passengers departing. The airport’s previous all-time record of 182,382 was set in March earlier this year.
Before 2024, the highest number of passengers in a single month was 178,836, recorded in July 2018. The standard industry practice of measuring outbound passengers indicates the primary source of airport revenue.
“These record-breaking numbers—the largest in Long Beach Airport’s century of service—underscore the fact that our award-winning airport is the gateway of choice for travelers in Southern California,” Mayor Rex Richardson said in a public statement. “LGB’s unwavering dedication to delivering easygoing, first-class service exceeds expectations for travelers and fuels economic growth and prosperity for our region.”
May 2024 saw a 23.1% rise in commercial passenger departures compared to May 2023. The total number of passengers from January to May 2024 increased by 18.6% compared to the same period last year.
The rise in passenger traffic is attributed to several factors, including increased use of LGB’s 58 flight slots. Southwest Airlines acquired 10 more slots last year, bringing its total to 50 and expanding its flight schedule.
Currently, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines provide nonstop flights to 24 destinations, including Hawaii. This represents the highest level of nonstop service in the airport’s 100-year history.
“As we celebrate 100 years of service, this is an incredible historic milestone to see more passengers move through LGB than ever before,” Long Beach Airport Director Cynthia Guidry said in a public statement. “The diversification of our route network, coupled with ongoing infrastructure and service upgrades have positioned LGB to reach new heights as the preferred choice for travelers in Southern California.”
LGB has also recently undergone modernizations as part of a $125 million improvement project to enhance passenger experience.
