Charleston International Airport marks record-breaking year

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Charleston International Airport marked a significant milestone last year, notching more than 6 million travelers from January to December 2023, driving the airport to a new annual record.

For the month of December 469,477 passengers traveled through Charleston International Airport, a 10% increase compared to 423,636 passengers in December 2022, according to a news release.  The 12-month activity through December 2023 totaled 6,153,540 passengers, a 15 % increase in passengers for the calendar year as compared to the year of 2022 with 5,324,147 passengers.

“The year-end numbers demonstrate why CHS is South Carolina’s favorite airport among airline passengers,” said Elliott Summey, executive director and CEO of the Charleston International Airport, in the release. “We have been laser-focused on developing an airport gateway that appeals to business and leisure travelers and visitors, drives the regional economy, and serves as a hub for commerce.  With the continued confidence of our airline partners and the growth in capacity planned at CHS, the trend is expected to continue in 2024.”

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This growth has presented various challenges for management who have been working to meet the airport’s evolving needs, the release stated. Over the past three years, several essential construction projects were successfully accomplished. These include expansion of the jet fuel storage facility, which more than doubled in size, the creation of three additional gates, implementation of common-use gating to increase flexibility, efficiency, and optimize operations, and the opening of a 3,000-space parking garage.

“Our airport has enjoyed a unique growth trajectory since the pandemic that outpaces many of our peers, and we don’t take this for granted,” Helen Hill, chair of the Aviation Authority and CEO of Explore Charleston, said in the release. “This incredible milestone is made possible only by the hard work and dedication of our tremendous CCAA employees and committed air service partners, as well as the support of our elected officials and local residents. I’m extremely proud of the CHS team and excited for what the future holds as the airport continues to solidify its place as a community asset, quality of life driver and key player in not just the travel and hospitality industry but our regional economy as a whole,” said.

Looking ahead, in 2024, the airport authority anticipates continued growth from its airline partners, as future airline schedules reveal increased seats inbound and outbound at CHS, the release stated. The airport is currently undertaking design projects to include a new concourse, ticketing hall expansion and additional parking.