Photo: Miami Airport Miami International Airport (MIA) ended the year 2024 with unprecedented passenger and cargo volumes.
MIA recorded nearly 56 million passengers in 2024, marking the third consecutive year of record-breaking traffic. International passenger numbers surged by 8.4% to 25.2 million, while domestic travel grew by 5.6%, reaching 30.8 million passengers.
With a 6.8% year-over-year increase, MIA maintained its title as the fastest growing major airport in the United States. Airlines expanded seat capacity by 24% compared to 2019, according to the North America Airport Council.
In cargo movement, MIA strengthened its dominance by handling 3 million tons of cargo in 2024, extending its five-year streak of record cargo volumes.
To handle this impressive growth, MIA is investing $9 billion in a modernization program, a comprehensive infrastructure overhaul aimed at improving passenger experiences and operational efficiency.
Key upgrades include the renovation of 33 transportation units (escalators, elevators, and conveyors), 48 restrooms, and 32 energy-efficient boarding bridges.
Several large-scale projects are also underway: the expansion of a parking garage costing $136 million with 2,240 spaces, set to be completed by the end of 2025.
Westin MIA Hotel - A luxury hotel costing $350 million with 546 rooms at the airport entrance, has started construction and will open in 2027.
Additionally, a $750 million project that includes six new passenger gates to be launched in 2025 with completion by 2029.
The airport is steadily working to improve customer experience with the I AM MIA program, which includes 90 out of 135 new positions already staffed by service representatives, along with more than 1,300 airport employees specially trained in hospitality in collaboration with the Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau to ensure excellent service for passengers.
