Sacramento, CA (January 26, 2026)– Sacramento International Airport (SMF) marked a historic year in 2025, serving a record 13,912,718 passengers, a two percent increase over 2024, and extending its growth streak to 23 consecutive months of year-over-year passenger gains, from January 2024 through October 2025. The milestone reinforces SMF’s position as one of the fastest-growing airports in the United States.
Passenger growth was supported by expanded airline service, increased seat capacity, and the addition of six new nonstop routes, including transcontinental service and expanded international connectivity to Mexico. In 2025, SMF also retained 12 percent more travelers who chose Bay Area airports in the past, which totals more than 400,000 travelers who previously drove long distances for air service.
“Passenger demand at SMF continued to climb in 2025, reflecting both the region’s growth and travelers’ preference for Sacramento International Airport,” said Director of Airports for Sacramento County, Cindy Nichol. “These results show that strategic investment, strong airline partnerships, and a clear vision for the future are paying off.”
Throughout the year, SMF set multiple monthly passenger records, including two record breaking months in June and July. By mid-year, the airport offered more than 200 daily nonstop flights on 11 domestic and international carriers, connecting Sacramento travelers to 52 nonstop destinations.
Infrastructure, Financing, and Customer Experience
Significant progress was made on the airport’s $1.4 billion SMForward modernization program, the largest capital investment in SMF history. In 2025, the Department of Airports:
- Added direct flights to Anchorage (ANC), Baltimore (BWI), Morelia (MLM), Orlando (MCO) Puerto Vallarta (PVR), and Tuscon (TUS)
- Achieved the nation’s first airport Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) loan, securing a low 2.44 percent interest rate and generating approximately $15 million in financing savings
- Completed a $490.1 million bond sale, following a successful investor roadshow that drew strong national interest
- Advanced construction on the Pedestrian Walkway and Parking Garage 2 projects, while modernizing curb management and parking guidance systems
- Opened the first wave of new concessions, with additional local and national brands scheduled to debut in 2026
Strengthening Service and Community Support
SMF’s Airport Ambassador volunteer program grew by nine percent in 2025, with 134 Ambassadors covering more than 10,000 service hours, ensuring travelers had increased access to assistance throughout the terminals.
Looking ahead, the airport continues to pursue expanded international connectivity, including its first-ever nonstop European service, in partnership with the Greater Sacramento Economic Council, regional business leaders, and global airline partners.
For more information about Sacramento International Airport and ongoing developments, visit www.sacramento.aero.
