Miami International Airport (MIA) has been experiencing an unprecedented influx of travelers this winter season, setting new records in passenger traffic. On December 23, the airport witnessed a historic peak, with a record-breaking 194,866 passengers in a single day.
This remarkable figure is part of a trend that started on December 16, with six other days ranking among the busiest in the airport’s history, each surpassing the 167,000 traveler mark.
Since the commencement of the winter travel period on December 21, MIA has been averaging 170,000 daily passengers, which is a significant 11% increase compared to last year’s record-setting season. This figure notably exceeds the airport’s initial projection of 162,000 travelers per day.
Daily Averages Soar Past Projections: MIA's Winter Travel Stats
Officials at MIA are anticipating further surges in the coming days, as the New Year’s Day and Three Kings Day holidays approach. These are popular times for travel to and from Miami-Dade County and the surrounding region. As of December 26, MIA has catered to 51.3 million passengers this year, and it’s on track to hit a new annual record of 52 million travelers by December 31, marking a 2.5% rise from the previous year.
In light of these projections, travelers at MIA are advised to adhere to the airport’s winter travel tips to ensure a smooth journey. Despite the surge in traffic, MIA’s parking facilities have remained operational, with ample spaces available for travelers. Currently, 52 out of the airport’s 616 elevators, escalators, and moving walkways are under maintenance as part of MIA’s ongoing Modernization in Action (M.I.A.) Plan.
Winter Travel Tips for Navigating MIA's Record Numbers
While the Concourse D Skytrain is temporarily out of service, MIA is offering alternative transportation options. A courtesy trolley service operates from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., with 10 shuttle pick-up stations located throughout Concourse D. Additionally, an airside shuttle bus is available between 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., with stops at gates D10 and D55. Passengers requiring wheelchair assistance are encouraged to contact their airline in advance to arrange the necessary accommodations.
“These record-breaking numbers prove once again how important MIA is to our tourism industry and our local economy, where one out of every four jobs is directly or indirectly supported by our airport. I am also proud to see MIA continue to provide the high level of customer service that made it one of the best airports in North America this year, according to the J.D. Power 2023 Airport Satisfaction Study.”
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava