Huntsville International Airport remains on track to break its annual passenger record for the third year in a row. While November travel dipped slightly, airport leaders say the slowdown appears temporary.
Airport CEO Butch Roberts said passenger traffic has rebounded in December. He noted that daily numbers have increased throughout the month, signaling a strong finish to the year.
Passenger Numbers Remain Strong
In November, the airport served about 134,400 passengers, down roughly 4% from the same month last year. However, year-to-date travel remains strong. Through the end of November, more than 1.5 million passengers traveled through Huntsville International.
That total already exceeds last year’s pace by more than 5%. If current trends continue, the airport will surpass its previous annual records set in 2023 and 2024.
Roberts said a brief federal government shutdown likely affected November numbers. During that period, airlines canceled some flights. Once the shutdown ended, traffic quickly recovered.
Airlines, Seats, and Cargo Activity
Most airlines at Huntsville International reported stable or growing passenger counts in November. Low-cost carrier Breeze Airways posted a significant increase in travelers. American Airlines was the only carrier to see a decline for the month.
The airport also increased available seats by nearly 10% compared to last November. That added capacity has played a major role in Huntsville’s recent record-breaking travel years.
Air cargo activity showed mixed results. Cargo weights rose slightly compared to last year but remain down overall for the year. Airport officials say global economic conditions continue to influence cargo trends.
Major Construction Projects Underway
Huntsville International Airport remains busy beyond passenger travel. Roberts said nine major construction projects are currently underway across the airport.
Recent work includes a multi-million-dollar concourse project and a completed main concourse renovation. Additional projects include a new Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Station and a major parking deck expansion.
The parking deck project alone will add more than 1,400 new parking spaces. Construction could begin as early as January.
Looking Ahead
With strong passenger demand, expanded seating, and ongoing improvements, Huntsville International Airport continues to grow alongside the region. Airport leaders remain confident that 2025 will close with another record-setting year.
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