Chicago, IL, US, 2014-1-27 — /travelprnews.com/ — Mayor Rahm Emanuel announces that in 2013, Midway International Airport recorded its highest passenger total in the airport’s 86-year history with more than 20 million passengers. This passenger total exceeds Midway’s previous record, set in 2012, by nearly five percent.
“Midway International Airport is a vital part of our city’s strong transportation network and key to increasing economic activity and creating new jobs for Chicagoans, said Mayor Emanuel. “As Midway continues its record-breaking trend serving millions of passengers, it will continue to also serve as a critical component in achieving Chicago’s goal of 55 million visitors a year by 2020 and making Chicago one of the world’s premier tourist destinations.”
Twelve new destinations were added to the Midway market in 2013, including service to Jamaica, the Dominican Republic and popular destinations around the U.S. Six airlines at Midway provide service to 75 destinations. Southwest Airlines serves more cities from Chicago than any other in its network.
“Midway’s success is due to the outstanding commitment of our airline partners, especially Southwest Airlines, a great management team and the investments we have made into the airport’s facilities over the last 10 years,” said Rosemarie S. Andolino, Commissioner, Chicago Department of Aviation. “We are looking forward to another positive year at Midway in 2014 as we continue to improve the airport’s infrastructure, and enhance its concessions program, passenger services and amenities.”
Midway has experienced a steady growth in passengers over the last few years. From 2008 through 2012, Midway’s enplanement growth was 3.1 percent compared to 0.6 percent average growth for airports nationwide. With more than 20 million passengers in 2013, Midway has set another record. Midway’s growth is expected to continue in 2014. In June, Southwest Airlines will launch new service to Boise, ID and seasonal service to Portland, ME.
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