After a January that declined 1 percent year-over-year, February saw a 3 percent jump, likely attributable to the extra day afforded by the leap year. However, March then continued the trend with a 5 percent increase in departing and arriving passengers. Looking at the quarter as a whole, TIA served 958,674 travelers in comparison to 934,409 in the first quarter of 2011.
Alaska Airlines was responsible for the largest increase, having served 32 percent more passengers at TIA in this time period. Starting in June, Alaska is scheduled to use airplanes with 18 percent more seats for its daily flights between Tucson and Seattle-Tacoma.
American Airlines flew 17 percent more passengers this quarter, and Delta Air Lines’ volume went up 6 percent.
In calendar year 2011, TIA served a total of 3,658,1999 passengers, which was a 3 percent decrease from the 2010 total.
Tucson International Airport (TIA) serves the community with commercial, military, cargo and general aviation operations that support 17,000 jobs, enhance the region’s business climate and improve quality of life for Southern Arizonans. TIA began as the nation’s first commercial airport and has continually evolved to meet its users’ needs for safety, efficiency and service. No local tax dollars are used in the airport’s operation and maintenance.
