Las Vegas, the entertainment capital of the world, attracts millions of visitors every year. However, in January 2024, the city’s main airport, Harry Reid International Airport, reported a slight drop in passenger traffic compared to the same month last year.
What are the numbers?
According to the Clark County Department of Aviation, the airport served 4.34 million passengers in January 2024, a 0.9 percent decline from the 4.38 million passengers in January 2023. This was the first monthly year-over-year decrease in passenger counts since August 2023, when traffic dipped 0.5 percent.
The decline was mainly due to a 1.9 percent decrease in domestic travel, which accounted for 4 million passengers. International travel, on the other hand, increased by 19.5 percent to 281,462 passengers, thanks to the recovery of some overseas markets. The charter terminals, which mainly serve air tour helicopters, also saw a 9 percent drop in traffic to 66,418 passengers.
Which airlines performed well?
Despite the overall decline, some airlines managed to increase their market share and passenger numbers at the airport. Southwest Airlines, the dominant carrier at the airport, saw a 13.2 percent increase in passengers to 1.7 million, making it the most popular airline among domestic travelers. Westjet, the Canadian low-cost carrier, led the international traffic with 57,731 passengers, a 23.1 percent increase from January 2023.
However, not all airlines fared well. Spirit Airlines, the second-largest carrier at the airport, suffered a 14.8 percent decrease in passengers to 573,545, losing some ground to its competitors. Allegiant Air, the Las Vegas-based airline that focuses on leisure travelers, also reported a 9.9 percent decrease in passengers to 276,000, according to its own press release.
What are the factors behind the decline?
The decline in passenger traffic at the airport could be attributed to several factors, such as the seasonality of travel, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the competition from other destinations.
January is typically a slow month for travel, as people tend to stay home after the holiday season. The COVID-19 pandemic, which is still affecting some parts of the world, may also have discouraged some travelers from flying, especially those who are not fully vaccinated or who face travel restrictions. Additionally, Las Vegas may have faced some competition from other popular destinations, such as Florida, Hawaii, and Mexico, which offer warmer weather and more outdoor activities.
What are the expectations for the future?
Despite the decline in January, the airport and the city are optimistic about the future of travel and tourism. February passenger counts, which will be reported at the end of March, are expected to be high, as the city hosted the Super Bowl 58, one of the biggest sporting events in the world. The airport is also expanding its capacity and facilities, such as adding new gates, renovating terminals, and improving security and baggage systems.
Las Vegas, which is known for its casinos, shows, and nightlife, is also diversifying its offerings to attract more visitors. The city is investing in new attractions, such as the MSG Sphere, a giant spherical venue that will host concerts and events, and the Boring Company’s underground loop system, which will transport passengers between the airport and the Strip. The city is also hosting more conventions, sports, and entertainment events, such as the Consumer Electronics Show, the National Finals Rodeo, and the Electric Daisy Carnival.
Las Vegas is confident that it will remain one of the most desirable destinations in the world, and that its airport will continue to serve millions of passengers every year.
