HIA: Christmas and New Year’s Travel Could Set a New Record

More central PA air travelers are choosing to fly from closer to home, and Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) expects record-breaking travel during the 2025 Christmas and New Year’s holiday season. The airport anticipates 66,600 passengers between Dec. 20, 2025, and Jan. 3, 2026, up 2% over last year’s record. Busiest days: Dec. 28 (5,632), Dec….

HIA Airport Drive Detour in Effect December 1–19

Beginning December 1, 2025, roadway maintenance will require temporarily closing the connector off-ramp leading from the Airport Connector to Airport Drive. During this time, all traffic will follow a posted detour route around the work zone.The project is expected to last through December 19, 2025. Minimal Impact for Terminal Access Most travelers using Terminal Drive…

2025 HIA Thanksgiving Week Expected to Set New Record

Harrisburg International Airport anticipates its busiest Thanksgiving travel period ever. Between Tuesday, November 25 and Monday, December 1, HIA expects nearly 33,000 passengers—an 18% increase over 2024 and 11% more than the previous record set in 2019. Busiest Travel Days: Lightest Travel Days: Plan ahead, arrive early, and enjoy your travel this holiday season. 2025…

Harrisburg International Airport Continues to Set Records

More people are flying to more places, more often from HIA. A record 134,337 passengers flew into and out of the airport in September 2025—breaking the September 2024 record by 1.9%. September marked the 7th consecutive monthly traffic record and the 20th consecutive month of year-over-year growth. January through September 2025 traffic totaled 1,209,986—up 13.2%…

Emergency Training Exercise at Harrisburg International Airport

Training Exercise Saturday, September 20, 2025 Who: Harrisburg International Airport, airport mutual aid fire and Emergency Medical Services providers, the Pennsylvania Air National Guard, the American Red Cross, and approximately 50 volunteers.   What: Full Scale Emergency Plan Training Exercise Where: Harrisburg International Airport, Middletown PA            When: Saturday, September 12, 2025, beginning at 9:00 AM Why:…

Harrisburg International Airport Sets Passenger Records for Fourth Straight Month

July sets another record MIDDLETOWN, Pa., August 27, 2025 – Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) continues its remarkable growth, setting another passenger traffic record in July 2025. With 152,179 total passengers choosing HIA last month, we notched our second consecutive monthly traffic record and have now seen 18 straight months of year-over-year growth. In fact, April,…

Labor Day Week Traffic Expected to Set Record at Harrisburg International Airport

MIDDLETOWN, Pa., August 26, 2025 – Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) expects passenger traffic to set a new Labor Day weekend record, with nearly 25,000 travelers projected between Thursday, August 28 and Tuesday, September 2. This year’s projection is about 11% higher than last year’s record, thanks to all five airlines offering more flights and seats…

Cheers to Great Taste: Yuengling 1829 Bar & Grill Coming to HIA

Big news for travelers who love local flavor—HMSHost is transforming the former Phillips Seafood space at HIA into an all-new Yuengling 1829 Bar & Grill, scheduled to open around Labor Day weekend 2025. 🍺 A True Taste of Pennsylvania Conveniently located across from Gate A1, this full-service dining destination will showcase Pennsylvania’s oldest brewery in…

✈️ Terminal Enhancements Underway at HIA

As record numbers of travelers fly through HIA, we’re investing in major upgrades throughout the terminal to make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. From infrastructure improvements to comfort-focused renovations, here’s what you can expect in the months ahead: Here’s a look at what’s happening: Jet Bridge Replacements We’re replacing six of our 12 jet…

HIA Breaks Passenger Record in June 2025

Harrisburg International Airport saw its busiest month ever this June, welcoming 151,532 passengers—a 7% increase over the previous record set back in 1997. That momentum wasn’t just a one-month wonder. Over the first six months of 2025, 777,293 total passengers flew through HIA—a new mid-year record and a 13.5% jump compared to the same period…

New Jet Bridge at Gate C3

Harrisburg International Airport has reached a significant milestone in its infrastructure modernization program with the installation of the first of six brand-new jet bridges, now operational at Gate C3 for American Airlines passengers. The upgrade process began in June 2025 when the airport’s 22-year-old bridge was decommissioned and carefully removed to make way for the state-of-the-art replacement. Enhanced Passenger…

HIA Passenger Traffic Soars 13% in 2025: Third Consecutive Monthly Record

HIA is experiencing unprecedented growth in 2025, with passenger traffic climbing nearly 13% through the first five months of the year. May 2025 saw 140,554 passengers arrive and depart—a 10% increase over May 2024 and a new monthly record for the airport. May was the third consecutive month HIA has set a passenger traffic record…

United Airlines now offers 4 Daily Flights to Chicago from HIA

Beginning today, United Airlines now offers four daily nonstop flights to its largest hub in Chicago, with more connections to cities around the world.  These are the most daily flights from IA to ORD since the COVID-19 pandemic begin in March 2020.  United Airlines is the largest airline in the world based on aircraft fleet…

Final phase of HIA Cargo Apron Expansion project now active

While driving along Airport Drive from the HIA terminal building toward the Long-term parking lot, look to your right and you’ll see significant construction activity as the final phase of the airport’s cargo apron expansion project is underway.    Demolition work continues to remove an old Work War II era building foundation.  Once removed a…

Discover Charlotte: Your Gateway to Global Destinations

Looking for a seamless and convenient way to travel? Charlotte, North Carolina, is not just an incredible destination on its own—it’s also a major hub for reaching cities across the U.S. and beyond. With American Airlines now offering seven daily flights from Harrisburg (MDT) to Charlotte (CLT), your travel options have never been better! Why…

Harrisburg International Airport Sees 10.8% Increase in Passenger Traffic in 2024

1,445,219 passengers used the airport in 2024—busiest year since 2019’s record Middletown, PA – January 29, 2025 – Harrisburg International Airport (HIA) records a fourth consecutive year of passenger growth, with a total of 1,445,219 passengers using the airport in 2024. This marks the busiest year since the record set in 2019, reflecting a 10.8%…

Harrisburg International Airport Police Department Receives PLEAC Accreditation

MIDDLETOWN, Pa. (Jan. 28, 2025) – The Harrisburg International Airport Police Department recently reached a significant milestone by earning accreditation from the Pennsylvania Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission (PLEAC). This designation recognizes the Department’s dedication to maintaining rigorous standards in training, accountability, and community engagement—all of which contribute to a safer, more welcoming experience for everyone…

Stampede Around the States

Basketball fans, come cheer on the Bison as they kick off their Patriot League conference season on January 5, 2025! Harrisburg International Airport (HIA) is proud to partner with Bucknell University to support the Bison this season. To celebrate our partnership, HIA is giving you the chance to win a $1,000 flight voucher to explore…

College Football at HIA

Harrisburg International Airport (HIA) is buzzing with excitement as college football playoff season takes center stage. HIA and its fixed base operator (FBO), Avflight, are helping teams, fans, and equipment make it to the games that matter most. Let’s look at how HIA is connecting central Pennsylvania to the heart of college football. Avflight: Football…

Bagels and Beer coming to Harrisburg International Airport 

Construction is under way for two new retail outlets coming to Harrisburg International Airport (MDT): Crafted and The Great American Bagel Bakery.  Upgraded Food OptionsThe Great American Bagel Bakery will introduce an artisan-inspired bakery-café concept that features fresh, hand-rolled bagels, premium coffee, and a range of grab-and-go items. Adjacent to this bakery-café, Crafted will offer…

Record Holiday Travel Coming to HIA

Get Ready for the Busiest Holiday Travel Season Yet at Harrisburg International Airport The 2024 holiday travel season is shaping up to be the busiest in years at Harrisburg International Airport (HIA). Between Friday, December 20th, and Friday, January 3rd, HIA expects approximately 63,400 passengers to fly into and out of the airport, marking a…

Franklin County Regional Airport: Poised for Growth

Located just north of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, Franklin County Regional Airport (FCRA) is a general aviation airport poised for growth. Owned and operated by the Susquehanna Area Regional Airport Authority (SARAA), FCRA handles over 13,000 takeoffs and landings annually. FCRA supports recreational flying activities, corporate travel, medical transport, agricultural services, and community events. Franklin County Regional…

Expanded Service from HIA – Your Gateway to Winter Travel

Winter is almost here, and Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) is ready to get you where you need to go, with more options than ever before. Here’s what’s new this December: At HIA, we offer an Altogether Better™ experience—no big airport chaos, just the convenience of flying closer to home. Plan your next getaway and discover…

Thanksgiving Holiday Travel Tips

Make Thanksgiving Travel Stress-Free with These Tips from HIA Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel periods of the year, and Harrisburg International Airport (HIA) is ready to help you navigate the holiday season with ease. Whether you’re flying out to visit family or welcoming loved ones, a bit of preparation can go a long…

Harrisburg International Airport Achieves Record Passenger Traffic in September

HIA sees a 23% increase in traffic year-over-year, marking the busiest September in its history. Harrisburg, PA – Harrisburg International Airport (HIA) reached a significant milestone this fall, with a record-breaking 131,791 passengers passing through in September. This achievement represents a remarkable 22.8% increase in traffic compared to the same month last year, setting a…

Behind the Scenes: The IT Department at Harrisburg International Airport

Harrisburg International Airport’s IT Department is committed to their mission of providing safe, convenient, and affordable connections for central Pennsylvania residents to the world. Kevin Bryner and his carefully selected team of hardworking IT experts contribute to the success of the airport by ensuring technology functions seamlessly, providing passengers and staff with a smooth and…

Fall Colors at TSA Checkpoints—What You Need to Know

As the fall season brings vibrant colors to the landscape, a few unexpected hues are also showing up at TSA checkpoints—colorful firearms. While most guns detected by TSA officers are traditional black, more travelers are bringing colorful weapons in shades of pink, purple, teal, and red. TSA officers are well-trained to handle such situations quickly…

American Airlines Adding Seasonal, Saturday Only Nonstop Service to Miami from Harrisburg International Airport

Saturday flights to be flown between February 15th and March 29th, 2025 Harrisburg, PA – October 15, 2024 – American Airlines will offer seasonal, Saturday only nonstop flights to Miami International Airport (MIA) from Harrisburg International Airport (MDT), between February 15th and March 29th, 2025.  “American’s new nonstop Miami service provides central PA leisure and…

HIA Police Lieutenant Completes Prestigious FBI National Academy Training

Lt. Jon Greenawalt Graduates from the FBI National Academy Harrisburg, PA, September 16, 2024 – The Susquehanna Area Regional Airport Authority (SARAA) is proud to announce that Lt. Jon Greenawalt, a dedicated officer of the Harrisburg International Airport (HIA) Police Department, has successfully completed the 291st session of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia….

Exciting Expansion at HIA: Enhancing Cargo Capabilities and Regional Connectivity

Harrisburg International Airport (HIA) is set to soar to new heights with the completion of a multi-year air cargo expansion project in time for the busy holiday shopping season in 2025.  Once completed, this project provides an expanded parking area for another three large cargo aircraft while improving regional stormwater drainage across airport property. This…

Alan Houck: Leading General Aviation at Capital City Airport

Introduction Meet Alan (Al) D. Houck, a dedicated professional with a remarkable career journey, now at the helm of the General Aviation Department at Capital City Airport (CXY). With a rich background in law enforcement, military service, and project management, Al brings a wealth of experience and a passion for aviation to his current role….

HIA Reports 2ND Quarter Traffic up 15% vs 2023

American Airlines traffic up 30% (Middletown, PA – July 31, 2024) – A total of 379,002 passengers passed through Harrisburg International Airport (HIA) during the months of April, May and June 2024, an increase of 15.5 percent compared to the same three months in 2023.  For the year-to-date period ending June 30th, a total of…

Meet Ryan Johnson: The Head of Airport Operations at Harrisburg International Airport

Ryan Johnson’s journey into the world of aviation began in college, where he initially pursued a degree in aeronautical science, dreaming of becoming a pilot. However, his path shifted, leading him to change his major to aviation business administration. After graduating, he joined Harrisburg International Airport (HIA) in an entry-level operations position and has now…

Meet Arletta Metzger: The Driving Force Behind Harrisburg International Airport’s Properties Department

At Harrisburg International Airport, one woman stands out as the driving force behind the seamless management of the airport’s extensive real estate portfolio: Arletta Metzger. As the head of the Properties Department, Arletta brings a wealth of experience and expertise that ensures the smooth operation and growth of airport properties, contributing significantly to the airport’s…

2024 July 4th Holiday Travel Tips From HIA

2024 HIA July 4th travel week expected to be up 8% vs 2023 Between Wednesday July 3rd and Tuesday, July 9th, HIA expects around 26,650 passengers to fly into and out of the airport during the July 4th travel week.  This is an 8% increase over 2023.    Busiest Days                                      Mon., July 8—4,415                                                   …

United Airlines is Once Again Offering Flights from Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) to Dulles International Airport (IAD)

Why are 2 Flights a Day to Dulles Important? For business and leisure travelers throughout central Pennsylvania. United’s service to Dulles provides access to 50+ domestic and 25+ international destinations. This new service replaces flights to Newark. Below are some of the most popular destinations travelers will visit: International Mexico City Rome Frankfurt Barcelona Montreal…

HIA Reports May traffic up 19% vs May 2023

Third busiest May in Airport history (Middletown, PA – June 26, 2024) – A total of 127,780 passengers passed through Harrisburg International Airport (HIA) during May 2024, an increase of 18.7 percent compared to May 2023, making it the third busiest May in airport history.     As of May 31st, 555,122 passengers have used the…

Delta Adds Minneapolis Flights from HIA for Penn State at Minnesota Game

Game is on Saturday, November 23rd, 2024   (Middletown, PA – June 25, 2024) – Traveling to Minneapolis for the Penn State Nittany Lions at Minnesota Golden Gopher football game, on Saturday, November 23rd, just became faster and easier.   Delta Air Lines has added nonstop flights between Minneapolis St. Paul International Airport (FAA code: MSP)…

Wings of Success: Human Resources at Harrisburg International Airport

Fly behind the scenes of a “small town” called Harrisburg International Airport and discover the intricacies of the HR department. To fostering a culture of safety, diversity, and excellence; to facilitating flights and boosting employee satisfaction, Mick Burkett and Heather Oliver are the architects of HIA’s polished operations. Take a seat and learn how Mick…

Fly Nonstop to Jacksonville: Florida’s Gem of Diversity

Nestled along Florida’s northeastern coast, Jacksonville stands as the Sunshine State’s largest city, bustling with vibrant energy and an eclectic mix of attractions. As the most populous city in Florida, Jacksonville boasts a rich tapestry of culture, history, and outdoor adventures, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a diverse experience. With flights from…

Maintaining Excellence: Airport Ground Maintenance

Two miles of highway will take you exactly two miles. However, two miles of runway, can take you anywhere in the world.  Everyday aircraft ranging in size from a small single engine Cessna, to the Antonov 124—the world’s largest plane, takeoff, and land at Harrisburg International Airport. The men and women of the airfield grounds…

Revving Up: A Look Into Vehicle Maintenance at Harrisburg International Airport

Imagine waking up in the morning and walking into your garage knowing you have nearly 100 vehicles—including fire trucks, 6,500 ton per hour snow blowers, dump trucks, loaders, and shuttle buses—and more than 400 pieces of equipment including paint machines, lawn mowers and weed whackers, all worth more than $14 million to keep working every…

HIA Welcomes U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg

On Tuesday, June 4th, 2024, Harrisburg International Airport was pleased to host U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg as we provided him on three important airport projects funded by the bipartisan infrastructure bill.  He also recorded an interview with CNBC’s Scott Wapner near the cargo airport construction site.   In 2023, the Airport Authority received $9 million from…

2024 Memorial Day travel expected to be up 2% vs 2022

Between Thursday, May 23rd and Tuesday, May 28th HIA expects around 23,400 passengers to fly into and out of the airport during the Memorial Day holiday travel week. Busiest Days Slowest Days Thu., May 23—4,600 Sat., May 25—3,100 Fri., May 24—4,250 Tue., May 28—3,300 Mon., May 27—4,150 This is a 15% increase over 2023 and…