DALLAS — Ontario International Airport (ONT) is anticipating a significant surge in passenger numbers over the upcoming Labor Day weekend. Airport officials announced that they expect an 11% increase in passenger traffic compared to last year's holiday weekend, surpassing the nationwide forecasted growth of 8.5% by the Transportation Security Administration.

Between Thursday, August 29, and Monday, September 2, airlines are projected to offer over 130,000 seats on flights arriving and departing from ONT, with more than 105,000 passengers expected to pass through the airport. The busiest day is predicted to be Monday, September 2, with approximately 23,500 travelers.

Alan D. Wapner, president of the Ontario International Airport Authority Board of Commissioners, highlighted the airport's growing popularity among Southern Californians, citing its convenience and unique travel experience.

Atif Elkadi, the airport's CEO, expressed optimism about concluding the summer travel season on a high note, aiming to reach a total of 2.1 million passengers for the summer period, beginning from Memorial Day weekend.

The airport's growth reflects its rising status as a preferred travel hub in Southern California, bolstered by added flights to popular destinations throughout the summer.

In related news, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is also gearing up for a busy Labor Day travel period, expecting over 2.3 million passengers between Wednesday, August 28, and Wednesday, September 4.

Airport officials at ATL have identified Friday, August 30, as the peak travel day, with projections of more than 349,000 passengers passing through ATL.