When tracking new trends in aviation, one term stands out: fastest growing private airports. These hubs lead the charge in private aviation traffic and infrastructure improvements this year. From Silicon Valley to Florida and Colorado, their rise reflects shifting demand, regional economic changes, and strategic investments.
What’s Driving Growth in Private Aviation?
- Booming Business and Tech Hubs Regions like Silicon Valley and Phoenix are seeing surging economic activity and corporate travel.
- Lifestyle Migration Patterns Warm weather states such as Florida attract seasonal residents and second home buyers arriving via private flights.
- Recreational Demand High altitude airports near ski resorts or golf destinations also benefit from seasonal private traffic.
- FBO, Hangar and Airpark Investments Airports are adding premium amenities, attracting private aircraft owners.
1. San José Mineta International (SJC), California
San José Mineta International Airport | Photo flysanjose.com
San José Mineta topped Argus TRAQPak’s 2024 list among the 25 busiest U.S. private jet airports, with a 6% year over year increase. The Silicon Valley boom fuels this growth, as tech executives value its direct access and strong FBO infrastructure. With ongoing upgrades, SJC is becoming a key strategic hub for West Coast private flights.
2. Sarasota Bradenton International (SRQ), Florida
Long Boat Key, Sarasota | Photo: flysrq.com
SRQ has diversified aggressively, leasing campus facilities to rental car firms, hotels, and maintenance operations. This steady commercial growth complements its private aviation services. Expect enhanced FBO lounges, expanded hangar space, and smoother ground operations in 2025.
3. Eagle County Regional (EGE), Colorado
Eagle County Regional Airport | Photo: flyege.com
Serving Vail and Beaver Creek, EGE recorded about 58,000 aircraft operations in 2024, including significant private jet traffic. Winter tourism remains a major draw, and recent terminal updates plus customs facilities for private flights further boost its appeal.
4. Punta Gorda Airport (PGD), Florida
Punta Gorda Airport (PGD), Florida | Photo: flypgd.com
Though primarily a general aviation hub, PGD logged an average of 283 flights daily, including a growing share of private jet operations. With terminal expansion underway, increasing gates from 6 to 10, and planned 2025 investments, PGD’s capacity for private traffic is set to rise further.
5. Mesa Gateway Airport (IWA), Arizona
Mesa Gateway Airport | Photo: gatewayairport.com
IWA saw exponential MRO growth with Gulfstream’s West Coast service center and Virgin Galactic’s assembly plant. This infrastructure attracts larger private jets needing servicing or hangar space. Continued airport expansion is expected under the Gateway 2030 plan.
Honorable Mentions
While the fastest growing private airports dominate the spotlight, other hubs like Northwest Arkansas National (XNA) and Yampa Valley Regional (HDN) are gaining traction. XNA surpassed 2 million passengers in 2024, signaling rising private jet demand, while HDN remains a critical gateway to Colorado’s ski country. Though not topping 2025’s growth charts, these airports reflect the broader expansion of private aviation nationwide.
- Northwest Arkansas National (XNA) surpassed 2 million passengers in 2024, signaling rising private jet use in the region.
- Yampa Valley Regional (HDN) remains a key private jet gateway into Colorado ski country.
Comparing the Growth Drivers and Infrastructure Trends
| Airport | Primary Growth Driver | Infrastructure Investments |
|---|---|---|
| San José (SJC) | Tech executive demand | New FBO lounges, runway upgrades |
| Sarasota (SRQ) | Real estate and business operations | Maintenance park, hangars |
| Eagle County (EGE) | Seasonal tourism | Terminal expansion, customs |
| Punta Gorda (PGD) | Regional travel | Added gates, improved ramp |
| Mesa (IWA) | MRO and aerospace | MRO hangars, GV plant |
Outlook Through 2025 and Beyond
Gulfstream and Dassault Falcon private jets airplanes | Photo: Boarding1Now
Industry wide, private aviation revenues reached around $21.24 billion in 2024 and are projected to hit $24.28 billion in 2025. North America leads with a 5.2% increase in business aviation demand. These trends will keep the spotlight on emerging private jet hubs.
Key emerging themes:
- Airpark and fly in community expansion in Texas and Florida.
- Advanced FBO services and sustainability options like SAF at leisure and executive airports.
- Seasonal tourism corridors near ski and resort destinations remain strong private jet markets.
The Runway Ahead
The fastest growing private airports in the U.S. for 2025 are defined by their responsiveness to demand, whether tech, tourism, business, or aerospace based. San José, Sarasota, Eagle County, Punta Gorda, and Mesa are enhancing infrastructure and services to match private aviation‘s rising momentum.
For operators, these hubs offer expanding options. For investors and aviation partners, they signal where future demand and growth opportunities lie. As infrastructure continues catching up with traffic, expect private aviation to further diversify across emerging markets.