Oakland International Airport has seen a slight uptick in passenger numbers for 2023, hosting over 11.2 million travelers, which marks a 0.8 percent increase over the prior year. However, the airport experienced a substantial dip in cargo transport, with figures showing an 11.8 percent decrease from the preceding year.

Despite the mixed performance, Craig Simon, Interim Director of Aviation at the Port of Oakland, remains upbeat about the latest statistics. “2023 was an exciting year for Oakland International Airport with new passenger amenities, and improvements made to our aviation facilities,” Simon said, according to the airport’s official announcement. He expressed optimism as OAK embarks on 2024's endeavors, thanking the local community for their patronage and support.

Throughout the previous year, OAK rolled out several initiatives to enhance the customer experience. These included the introduction of new eateries such as the OAK Clubhouse in Terminal 1 and Calavera and Southie in Terminal 2. The airport also laid out plans for an expanded retail presence, with agreements for 16 new retail outlets to set up shop within its confines.

Last year also saw the addition of new airline services. Notable among them were Avianca Airlines commencing flights to San Salvador, Viva Aerobus to Monterrey, and Sun Country Airlines to Minneapolis-St. Paul. On the domestic front, new nonstop routes were added, connecting Oakland to Atlanta via Delta Air Lines, Baltimore/D.C. through Southwest Airlines, and New York City/Newark via Spirit Airlines. Beyond service enhancements, OAK launched ambitious facility improvements, completing projects like the Terminal 2 Security Exit, the Terminal 1 Carpet and Furniture Replacement Projects, and the Taxiway Whiskey Rehabilitation Project Phase 1.

OAK's environmental stewardship was recognized as the airport received Level 2 Carbon Accreditation from Airports Council International – North America, acknowledging their efforts to reduce carbon emissions. Looking ahead to 2024, the airport will continue to upgrade its infrastructure and services. Projects on the horizon include the opening of the new Cancun Sabor Mexicano restaurant, a slew of other dining options, and crucial structural enhancements such as the Terminal 1 Check-in Counter Replacement and Restroom Renovation Projects, as well as the continuation of taxiway refurbishments. Additionally, OAK plans to roll out a new fleet of electric parking shuttle buses and undertake the significant Airport Perimeter Dike Improvement Project Phase 2 to boost seismic resilience.

For updated information and to learn more about Oakland International Airport’s projected plans, visit their website.