SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC NEWS) – One of the fastest growing airports in the country is here in Central New York. March was the fifth busiest month since 2005 for the Syracuse Hancock International Airport. Nearly 140,000 passengers flew through the airport.
“The days are gone where you can roll up here half an hour before your flight and think everything is going to be fine,” said Matt Szwejbka, the airport’s customer experience manager.
The high number of travelers is not an anomaly. Airport officials expect more of the same in the future.
“We expect an uptick as Sun Country Airlines starts their operations its yet another route that’s coming online,” Szwejbka said.
Sun Country Airlines will be the ninth airline to fly out of Syracuse when they begin their operations in early June. Before the pandemic, Syracuse only had seven airlines. The growth in both passengers and airlines has led the airport towards a $28 million renovation.
Both Terminal A and Terminal B will be expanded as a part of the renovation, so that larger aircrafts and more seating in the airport for flyers can be added.
The uptick in travelers and airlines is great for Syracuse Hancock International Airport’s business. But some travelers are big fans of the small and cozy feel the airport currently has.
“[The airport] is big enough but small enough to easily navigate, especially for first time flyers,” said flyer Macie Melear.
Another drawback of increased business has been an increase in prices. Before the pandemic, the airport had set busy days, such as the day before Thanksgiving, spring break, and winter break. Now, with travelers trying to find the cheapest flights, everyday sees a high number of travelers.
“With demand going through the roof for travel, the pricing may be a little too high during spring break or winter break,” said Szwejbka. “But two weeks before or two weeks after its affordable for a family of four to go.”
It will be interesting to see how the Syracuse Airport continues to adapt to the high traffic of travelers.
