PSP officials report strong growth in 2024, outline future plans in annual report

Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) experienced unprecedented growth in 2024, serving over 3.2 million passengers and setting new records in five months throughout the year.

March 2024 marked the busiest month in PSP’s history with 472,972 passengers, highlighting the airport’s expanding role as a vital travel hub for the Coachella Valley region.

The airport’s success extended beyond passenger numbers, with the addition of new routes, enhanced customer experiences, and strategic planning for future growth.

“2024 was another standout year for PSP, building on the record-breaking success of 2023,” said Harry Barrett, Jr., Executive Director of Aviation at Palm Springs International Airport. “Over 3.2 million passengers enplaned and deplaned at PSP, solidifying the airport’s role as a vital travel hub.”

PSP expanded its connectivity options with several new routes launched throughout the year. Frontier Airlines returned to PSP with affordable, year-round nonstop service to Denver and San Francisco, helping to lower fares airport-wide through increased competition.

United Airlines introduced daily nonstop service to Washington Dulles International Airport, linking the Coachella Valley to the nation’s capital and providing seamless access to global destinations.

Porter Airlines made its debut at PSP with seasonal nonstop service to Toronto Pearson International Airport, offering travelers an elevated economy experience with three weekly flights.

Delta Air Lines added seasonal nonstop service to New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport, complementing existing service to New York and providing another convenient link for East Coast travelers.

The airport also saw extensions of seasonal routes, with Avelo Airlines extending its Santa Rosa/Sonoma service through the summer and into 2025. American and United each extended their Chicago ORD service, running until June 2024 and returning earlier in the fall than in previous years.

In February 2024, PSP launched the innovative Stay & Play Visitor Pass program, granting non-travelers access beyond the security checkpoint. This program allows visitors to reunite with loved ones at the gate, enjoy the airport’s scenic outdoor patios, and explore shops and restaurants without a plane ticket.

“PSP is one of only a few airports in the country to offer this unique benefit, enhancing the airport experience for our community,” the report noted. “The Stay & Play program reflects our commitment to fostering connection, creating memorable moments, and making PSP more than just a place to catch a flight.”

Customer experience improvements continued with the introduction of a TSA PreCheck Enrollment Center operated by CLEAR in July 2024, making it easier for travelers to enroll or renew without appointments.

In October 2024, PSP implemented a comprehensive no-smoking policy, prohibiting smoking in all public and enclosed areas of the airport, including curbside and in the open-air courtyard post-security. A new designated smoking area located across the street from the terminal was established for those who wish to smoke.

The airport’s concessions transformation continued throughout 2024, bringing the essence of the Coachella Valley into PSP. The project, launched in September 2023 with Paradies-Lagardère and WHSmith, doubles dining locations and introduces new retail concepts that blend local flair with global appeal.

Several new dining and retail options opened in 2024, including Nine Cities Craft, Cactus to Clouds, Las Casuelas Terraza, Coachella Valley Coffee, and multiple retail shops featuring local goods and souvenirs.

PSP’s financial health remained strong, with the airport achieving an $8.5 million surplus while maintaining robust revenue streams across key sectors. The airport secured $15.1 million in grant funding to support critical improvements—all with zero reliance on local tax dollars.

S&P Global reaffirmed PSP’s long-term ‘A’ credit rating, citing strong financial metrics, effective management, and record passenger growth.

Security enhancements included the addition of a seventh lane to PSP’s TSA checkpoint, increasing hourly passenger throughput by approximately 16%. Due to increased passenger counts, PSP was elevated to a Category 1 security airport, bringing higher security oversight and resources.

In December 2024, PSP launched its Landside Division, with 12 new operations aides joining the team to manage traffic flow, assist with ground transportation, and patrol parking lots and roadways to ensure safety and security.

Looking to the future, the Palm Springs City Council unanimously approved the airport’s Master Plan in January 2025 after more than a year of meticulous analysis and extensive public engagement.

The plan provides a roadmap for responsible growth, outlining key projects such as a hybrid Rental Car Center for improved passenger convenience, terminal expansions, and a Federal Inspection Station to facilitate international routes.

“This Master Plan is about more than just infrastructure — it’s a commitment to a future that enhances travel options, strengthens economic growth, and preserves the welcoming character that makes PSP unique,” the report stated.

Community engagement remained a priority, with PSP hosting educational tours for local students, participating in the Greater Palm Springs Pride Parade, and launching a five-year collaboration with Desert Arc, a nonprofit empowering adults with disabilities through meaningful employment in landscaping and grounds maintenance at the airport.

The airport also hosted its first Bring Your Child to Work Day, welcoming 27 children for a behind-the-scenes look at airport operations, from exploring security checkpoints and baggage screening technology to boarding a United Airlines plane.

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