Indy airport announces record mid-year passenger traffic
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People are booking flights more than ever at Indianapolis International Airport.
Over 4.7 million passengers flew through the state’s dominant airport in the first six months of 2023 — a record for the airport.
Enplanements are up 11.5% this year and are outpacing other Midwestern airports, the Indianapolis Airport Authority said Thursday. March had the most travelers, credited to spring break season, with June and May close behind. Indianapolis 500 fans flying home during Memorial Day weekend also accounted for one of the business days at the airport.
The airport said in a news release these numbers surpass pre-pandemic totals.
“Guests are flying in from all around the world to attend major conventions and sporting events in Indy, like FDIC International, JAMFest Cheer Super Nationals and the Indy 500,” said Marsha Wurster, IAA senior director of commercial enterprise. “When these events overlay with a major holiday or travel season that also boosts passenger traffic.”
The airport also says its addition and resumption of several nonstop flights attributed to the increase. This includes destinations like San Francisco, Toronto, Orlando and Kansas City among others.
Next March, Delta Air Lines will bring back its nonstop flight to Salt Lake City. United Airlines will also adjust its flight schedule for return trips from San Francisco to arrive at a more convenient time than its current red eye.
Wuster said the airport is continuing to look for opportunities to increase its nonstop Europe and U.S. travel options.