ALLENTOWN, PA — As the summer travel season heats up, a record number of passengers traveled through Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) this May.
According to an official media release from airport officials, 85,243 passengers chose ABE as their air transport provider in May 2024, up 12,051 from 73,192 in May 2023.
In a statement, Thomas R. Stoudt, Executive Director of the Lehigh-Northampton Airport Authority (LNAA), said this 16.5% increase in traffic can mainly be attributed to three significant factors.
- A higher seat capacity in the market
- Allegiant Air started nonstop service to Orlando International Airport (MCO)
- American Airlines added more trips using Landline Bus Service to Philadelphia.
Further highlighting the surge in travel, the TSA reported nearly 3 million passengers screened on June 23, 2024, signaling a rapid recovery past pre-pandemic levels and a growing industry.
Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) is always bustling during the summer, and these pre-summer statistics indicate an even busier travel season ahead.
The airport provided these travel tips for an optimal experience to keep passengers prepared and informed.
- Give yourself extra time to process through the TSA Checkpoint
- Visit TSA.gov or @askTSA with any general questions or to arrange travel with special circumstances
- If you are traveling with children, double-check their carry-on bags to ensure there aren’t any prohibited items
- Passengers under the age of 18 years old do not need travel identification if accompanied by a companion
- Boarding begins 30 to 45 minutes prior to departure
- Checked bags will not be accepted less than 30 minutes before departure
