WILMINGTON — The Wilmington International Airport exceeded pre-pandemic passenger levels and set a new record in 2022.
The airport saw 1,086,245 passengers last year across its four airlines, American, United, Delta and newcomer Avelo.
“We’re thrilled passengers chose to ‘Fly ILM,’ resulting in a record year,” director Jeff Bourk said in a press release. “Heading into 2023, we have nonstop service to 14 markets and a fifth airline — Sun Country —starting service at ILM this year. We look forward to offering even more choices to travelers and having another successful year.”
Throughout 2022, ILM ranked above other state national airports for seats in the market and capacity recovery, according to the release. ILM had 2% more seats than ranked by capacity recovery than it did in 2019, while North Carolina airports averaged 8% less and airports across the country averaged 9% less.
In 2022, ILM landed two low-cost carriers, Avelo and Sun Country and Delta announced nonstop summer service to Boston and extended LaGuardia to year-round service. Further, American extended Boston’s nonstop season.
According to the airport’s annual summary, the facility supports 13,550 jobs. Its economic impact to the region totals $2.5 billion and tax revenue generated is $113 million.
Part of ILM’s multi-year terminal expansion a new concourse and gates opened, as well as new concessions and amenities. The project is on track to finish in 2023.
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