Punta Gorda Airport sets passenger record in 2025

Punta Gorda Airport posted a record-breaking year in 2025, welcoming 2,282,002 passengers, an 18.5% increase over the previous high set in 2024, according to the Charlotte County Airport Authority. 

The 2025 total surpassed the 1,925,128 passengers recorded in 2024, continuing a trend of rapid growth for the airport, which is served primarily by low-cost carrier Allegiant. 

“With nearly 2.3 million passengers this year, the Bailey Terminal saw record crowds and utilization,” said Airport Authority Chair Robert Hancik. “I want to share my appreciation to our loyal passengers, community leaders and aviators for flying through Punta Gorda Airport as we embark on continued expansion and improvements.” 

December was the airport’s busiest month, with 239,295 passengers, including 112,780 departures and 126,515 arrivals. 

Air traffic control data shows the number of takeoffs and landings, including Allegiant flights, general aviation traffic, military operations and air taxi services, totaled 143,678 in 2025, up slightly from 142,673 in 2024. 

Airport Chief Marketing Officer Kaley Miller said the increase in passenger traffic was driven in part by additional flights added by Allegiant during the year. In both 2024 and 2025, planes operated at about 85% passenger capacity, she said, meaning growth largely came from increased flight frequency rather than fuller aircraft. 

To accommodate continued demand, Punta Gorda Airport is moving forward with a 50,000-square-foot expansion of the Bailey Terminal. The project, expected to be completed in 2027, will add gate space, dining options and passenger amenities. 

Allegiant currently offers low-cost, nonstop service to more than 50 destinations from PGD, while Sun Country Airlines provides seasonal service to and from Minneapolis. 

At a Jan. 22 meeting of the Airport Authority, Miller said officials continue to pursue additional airline service. Representatives from the authority have been traveling to cities across the U.S. for a series of “meet and greets” aimed at generating interest among carriers considering new routes. 

The Airport Authority is also entering into new five-year operating agreements with Allegiant and Sun Country to ensure their continued presence at PGD. 

In an effort to streamline travel planning, the airport recently launched a new search engine powered by KAYAK. The FlyMyAirport tool, available at FlyPGD.com, allows passengers to search for flights, compare prices and explore rental car and hotel options in one place.