Traffic Takeoff in March

April 20th, 2022 | Airport News

Over 73,000 passengers choose ABE

(Hanover Township, PA) – Similar to the early travel resurgence in 2021, passengers were flying through Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) last month, as traffic numbers nearly reached pre-pandemic levels.

73,196 passengers traveled through ABE in March – a 57.09% percent increase from 2021 and a fraction below 2019 (76,512).

Month                Passengers          Percentage increase        Month                Passengers

Mar. ‘22                 73,196                              57.09%                 Mar. ‘21                   46,596

“Spring Break and ongoing demand has remained strong across the country. So far, ABE is also riding that momentum in 2022.  With steadily climbing passenger volumes, we anticipate another busy summer travel season (May-August) so we advise booking your summer travel soon and be sure to give yourself extra time and arrive at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure,” said Thomas R. Stoudt, Executive Director, Lehigh-Northampton Airport Authority (LNAA).

By the numbers, Delta reported a significant passenger traffic increase of 101.9%, Allegiant jumped 69.3%, United moved up 49.5%, and American finished 3.2% ahead of last March.

Important for travelers:  To ensure you don’t miss your flight at ABE, arrive at least 2 hours before your morning flight to ensure processing through the TSA checkpoint in enough time to reach your gate for on-time boarding.  

Earlier this month (April), ABE resumed nonstop service to Myrtle Beach (MYR) aboard Allegiant, and received the exciting news of American Airlines bus service to Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) beginning June 3^rd.

“Myrtle Beach continues as a popular destination for travelers within the region, and adding this new wingless flight to PHL gives travelers the option to start and finish their journey using the comfort and convenience ABE is known for,” said Stoudt.

17,950,331 pounds of air cargo was processed through Lehigh Valley International Airport in March – an increase of 3.60% from March 2021.

Month                Cargo (lbs.)              Percentage increase             Month              Cargo (lbs.)

Mar. ’22               17,950,331                            3.60%                         Mar.’21              17,326,261