The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey reported that 2024 was the busiest year on record for its commercial airports, surpassing the previous high set in 2023. This increase is attributed to enhanced capacity and improved facilities at John F. Kennedy International (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA), Newark Liberty International (EWR), and New York Stewart International (SWF) airports.
In 2024, an estimated 145.9 million passengers traveled through these airports, breaking the previous record of 143.8 million from 2023. Notably, international travel demand exceeded pre-pandemic levels, with 52.3 million international travelers in 2024 compared to 50.9 million in 2019.
This surge follows significant redevelopment projects at the Port Authority's major airports, resulting in modernized facilities. Newark Liberty’s new Terminal A received accolades as the world's best new airport terminal by Skytrax in April 2024 and earned a UNESCO Prix Versailles special prize for its exterior design.
LaGuardia Airport's transformation included the opening of Terminal B in 2020, recognized globally for its design excellence with awards like UNESCO Prix Versailles and a Skytrax 5-star rating. Forbes Travel Guide named it the best U.S. airport in October 2024.
John F. Kennedy International Airport was voted North America's best airport for two consecutive years by Business Traveller readers. Redevelopment efforts continue at JFK and Newark Liberty, focusing on terminals, transportation enhancements, and road networks.
Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole commented on reaching "nearly 146 million passengers," noting it reflects a "full post-pandemic recovery" and success in transforming regional airports into "world-class gateways." Executive Director Rick Cotton emphasized that these figures affirm their vision to offer "a modern world-class experience."
The increase in passenger volume was consistent across all Port Authority airports, with both JFK and LaGuardia experiencing their busiest years ever in December and during holiday travel periods.
The Port Authority has invested $30 billion into airport redevelopment projects across New York and New Jersey, which has also driven economic growth through construction jobs and tourism spending. At LaGuardia alone, $2.2 billion was awarded to minority- and women-owned businesses (MWBE).
At JFK Airport, developments include a $9.5 billion New Terminal One project initiated in September 2022, a $4.2 billion Terminal 6 started in February 2023, along with expansions of Terminals 4 and 8 led by Delta Air Lines and American Airlines respectively.
LaGuardia's redevelopment is nearly complete with Terminals B and C now operational alongside a new business center opened last fall.
Newark Liberty is undergoing comprehensive redevelopment starting with Terminal A as part of broader plans unveiled by the Port Authority to enhance infrastructure including roadways and taxiway networks while improving access via public transit projects such as replacing Newark’s AirTrain system.
