California, the Golden State, is home to some of the busiest airports in the United States. With its vast population, bustling economy, and popularity as a travel destination, California airports saw impressive passenger growth in 2023. A total of 113.9 million passengers boarded flights, marking a 15.6% increase from 2022. California led the nation in U.S. passenger boardings, surpassing Florida and Texas.
California's Major Airports: The Top Nine
Nine key airports accounted for 94% of the state’s passenger traffic. Here’s a closer look at the busiest air hubs and their 2023 enplanements:
- LAX - Los Angeles International Airport: 40,956,673 passengers. The busiest airport in California and second busiest in the U.S., LAX connects travellers to global destinations with unmatched volume.
- SFO - San Francisco International Airport: 24,191,159 passengers. As a major gateway to Asia and Europe, SFO shines as Northern California's premier international airport.
- SAN - San Diego International Airport: 12,190,183 passengers. SAN blends a scenic approach with strong domestic connectivity.
- SMF - Sacramento International Airport: 6,371,910 passengers. Known for its convenience, SMF serves the capital region and beyond.
- SJC - San Jose Mineta International Airport: 5,958,855 passengers. SJC offers a tech-forward travel experience in the heart of Silicon Valley.
- SNA - John Wayne Airport, Orange County: 5,706,332 passengers. SNA provides easy access to Southern California’s beaches and attractions.
- OAK - Oakland International Airport: 5,520,812 passengers. A key Bay Area airport, OAK offers quick connections and budget-friendly flights.
- ONT - Ontario International Airport: 3,181,161 passengers. ONT caters to Inland Empire travellers with domestic and international options.
- BUR - Hollywood Burbank Airport: 3,132,029 passengers. BUR is a favourite for its proximity to downtown Los Angeles and ease of use.
Airports Beyond the Top Nine
The remaining 6.7 million passengers travelled through smaller but significant airports, including:
- LGB - Long Beach Airport: A charming alternative to larger airports in Southern California.
- PSP - Palm Springs International Airport: A gateway to the desert’s luxury resorts and scenic landscapes.
- FAT - Fresno Yosemite International Airport: The go-to airport for California's Central Valley and Yosemite National Park visitors.
- SBA - Santa Barbara Airport: A picturesque choice for travellers heading to the Central Coast.
- SBP - San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport: An increasingly popular airport for wine country getaways.
Spotlight on Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
LAX dominated the state’s air travel scene, handling 36% of California’s enplanements in 2023. As the 2nd busiest airport in the U.S. and the 8th busiest globally, LAX continues to lead the way in connecting California to the world.
The Golden State's Gateway
California’s airports play a vital role in connecting millions of travellers to domestic and international destinations, embodying the state's diversity and global influence.
Discover Airport Code Merchandise
Love California and its bustling airports? Check out airport code merchandise from YHM Designs, featuring hats, mugs, and more for LAX, SFO, SAN, and other major airports. Perfect for aviation enthusiasts, travellers, and Golden State fans alike!
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How to Cite
Source: U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Illustration by YHM Designs.