Improving Business in the Wilmington Region

Wilmington International Airport Ranks #1 in North Carolina and #3 in U.S. for Growth

May 11, 2023
A recent analysis shows Wilmington International Airport continues to experience significant growth. During the period of January-September, all airlines are showing positive growth at ILM and seat growth in the market is +32%. With this growth in seats, Wilmington International Airport is North Carolina’s fastest growing airport for the first three quarters of 2023.

Further, ILM is also the 3rd fastest growing airport in the entire country (percent seat capacity growth Jan-Sept 2023 versus the same period in 2022).

During the timeframe of 2022-2023, nine new nonstops were announced at ILM. These new nonstops, coupled with the capacity growth on existing routes led to ILM’s significant growth. Jeff Bourk, ILM Airport Director stated, “Thank you to the four airlines that were here last year, American, Avelo, Delta, and United, for increasing capacity at ILM and to Sun Country for joining the list of airline offerings in 2023.”

LeAnn Pierce, Vice-Chair of the County Commission shared, “The increase in passengers and flights to and from ILM is a reflection of our community’s continued progress. Travelers see our county as a fun and vibrant place to visit, while businesses have realized the opportunity for economic success that our community offers. As a representative on the Airport Authority Board, I’m excited that ILM remains a key economic driver for our region, and we look forward to even greater things in the coming years.” Spruill Thompson, New Hanover County Airport Authority Chair added, “The NCDOT estimated ILM’s economic impact to be $2.5 Billion. With ILM’s growth, this impact increases and our entire economy benefits.”

About the Wilmington International Airport: The Wilmington International Airport serves southeastern North Carolina with commercial air service on American, Avelo, Delta, United, and-starting June 2023- Sun Country. These airlines provide nonstop service to seventeen markets, connecting travelers to hundreds of destinations. In addition to commercial air service, ILM supports a growing general aviation community and has two FBOs, Modern Aviation and Aero Center Wilmington. The ILM Business Park encompasses 140 acres and is strategically located in an intermodal environment. The NCDOT Division of Aviation’s 2022 report estimated ILM’s economic impact at $2.5 billion. For more information on ILM, please visit flyILM.com