A record 3.3 million passengers flew through Palm Springs International Airport in 2025.
The airport announced the record-breaking traffic figures Tuesday, Jan. 20. Last year’s passenger count was about 70,000 more than the previous record high, set in 2023.
“We’re proud to see more travelers choosing to fly from Palm Springs,” Harry Barrett Jr., executive director of aviation, said in a press release. “It reflects the strength of our air service and the convenience of PSP. Every trip that starts here supports local jobs, helps sustain the regional economy, and creates momentum for expanding nonstop air service that benefits the entire Coachella Valley.”
PSP set five monthly records for passengers, including in March, when nearly 500,000 passengers used the airport.
More and more people are choosing to fly in and out of Palm Springs rather than use other, larger facilities, according to the release.
Despite the increase, fewer commercial airplanes took of and landed from the city, meaning airlines are using large planes rather than the small, regional jets that used to be the norm.
The 3.3 million passengers represented a 2.4% increase compared to 2024. It came at a time when some Canadian travelers had boycotted the travel to the United States over threats by President Donald Trump to tariff their country.
City leaders were so concerned, they launched a campaign to lure the snowbirds back to town.
The Desert Sun has previously reported that domestic travel has made up for the decrease in international visitors.
The surge in travelers is expected to continue. Early last year the Palm Springs City Council approved a $2.2 billion expansion of the airport, meant to accommodate an expected twofold increase in passengers by 2042.
In less than 20 years, airport officials expect 6.3 million passengers to load or unload in Palm Springs. To prepare, the airport plans to increase the number of gates from 18 to 32 and add two rental car centers.
The airport has already added some improvements, including a zero-emission vehicle fleet and 80 new EV charging stations in the main parking lot.
Sam Morgen covers the city of Palm Springs for The Desert Sun. Reach him at smorgen@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Palm Springs airport saw record number of passengers in 2025
Reporting by Sam Morgen, Palm Springs Desert Sun / Palm Springs Desert Sun
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