MEMPHIS, TENN. (January 16, 2025) – Memphis International Airport (MEM) experienced a milestone year in 2024, highlighted by a record number of 4.9 million origin and destination (O&D) passengers traveling through the airport. These numbers reflected an increase of nearly 81,000 passengers compared to 2023.
Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority (MSCAA) presented an overview of 2024 milestones at its Board of Commissioners meeting on January 16. The review was highlighted in a video that can be found at https://youtu.be/pmWDSo14NGo.
2024 highlights and statistics:
- Total passengers: 4,878,919 (increase of 1.69 percent vs. 2023)
- Total scheduled flights: 48,848 (increase of 283 compared to 2023)
- Total cargo handled: 8.28 billion pounds (decrease of 3.27 percent compared to 2022, though MEM remained the busiest cargo airport in North America and second busiest in the world).
- MEM on the Move: MEM began the largest construction project in its history, which will lead to the replacement of the outer drive and the modernization of the ticketing and baggage areas.
- Parking enhancements: 828 parking spaces added, new parking system implemented, including real-time level count signage.
“MEM was definitely on the move in 2024,” said Terry Blue, MSCAA President and CEO. “We experienced another record-setting year of passenger traffic, began our terminal modernization project, and transitioned to a new enhanced parking system. We will continue this momentum into 2025 with the goal of making MEM the airport of choice for the Mid-South.”
Looking ahead to 2025 (projects on the horizon):
- MEM on the Move: Outer drive replacement project to begin, ride-share pickup to move to baggage level
- Parking system expansion and enhancements, including real-time online parking updates and parking guidance system to indicate vacant spaces
- Charles W. Baker Airport new terminal construction
- New flights: Spirit service to New Orleans (February), Spirit service to Fort Lauderdale (March), Southwest service to Nashville (April) and Delta service to Austin (May).