September 10, 2025

T.F. Green International Airport Named Fastest-Growing Major Airport

News Summary

T.F. Green International Airport (PVD) has been recognized as the fastest-growing major airport in the U.S. due to a 14% surge in passenger traffic and significant seat capacity increases. With new routes and infrastructure improvements, the airport aims to enhance travel experiences and support economic growth in Rhode Island. Future plans include expanding international flights and a $125 million terminal modernization project to accommodate growing demand.

Rhode Island’s T.F. Green International Airport Named Fastest-Growing Major Airport in the U.S.

T.F. Green International Airport (PVD) has been identified as the fastest-growing major airport in the United States, as per data released by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). The airport’s remarkable growth has been attributed to significant increases in passenger numbers recorded from May to October 2024, along with anticipated airline schedules for early 2025.

Passenger traffic at PVD surged by 14% over the last six months, surpassing major rivals such as Philadelphia International Airport and Washington-Dulles International Airport in terms of overall passenger and seat growth. Future projections indicate an impressive 22% increase in seat capacity over the next six months.

Record-Breaking Passenger Numbers

In December 2024, T.F. Green Airport celebrated its best performance since 1997, successfully accommodating over 4 million passengers for the first time since 2019. This upward trajectory marks a significant shift for the airport, recognized as the fastest-growing hub airport in New England based on Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) data.

Growth and Expansion Initiatives

The revival of PVD’s passenger traffic comes after a decade of decline, which saw reduced numbers and fewer destinations from the mid-2000s until 2016. The airport now boasts 38 nonstop destinations, including newly introduced seasonal services to Los Angeles and continuous connections to 10 Florida cities. Recently added routes include JetBlue’s daily flights to San Juan, Puerto Rico, and New York’s JFK Airport, along with Southwest Airlines flights to Nashville, Tennessee.

Additionally, Breeze Airways has expanded service, announcing new routes to Daytona Beach, Florida, and Wilmington, North Carolina. As one of Breeze Airways’ largest hubs, T.F. Green is also in the process of working towards international flights, with plans awaiting FAA certification projected to commence by 2027.

International Flight Expansion

To further enhance its growth strategy, PVD has announced plans to initiate international flights to Bermuda. This development reflects the airport’s commitment to not only meet but also accommodate the growing demand for air travel.

Infrastructure Improvements

In response to increasing passenger numbers, the airport has invested in several infrastructure improvements. These include the opening of a new discount overflow parking lot and the expansion of the free Cell Phone Waiting Lot to facilitate efficient passenger pickup. Key investments from both state and federal governments have played a pivotal role in the airport’s development and marketing initiatives.

The airport has undergone significant upgrades, including enhancements to runway systems and terminal facilities. These improvements have been partially funded by federal resources secured through local officials, showcasing a collaborative effort to elevate the passenger experience.

Economic Impact

The civil aviation sector significantly impacts Rhode Island’s economy, contributing approximately $2.7 billion and supporting over 19,000 jobs. PVD prioritizes creating a customer-friendly experience, integrating local cultural elements such as live music and locally-owned food vendors into its environment.

Future Developments

PVD’s leadership remains focused on further enhancing passenger experience through improvements in operational coordination, staffing, and planned facility expansions. A $125 million terminal modernization project is anticipated to begin in late 2025, aimed at positioning the airport for continued growth and efficiency.

This rapid development underscores T.F. Green International Airport’s transformation into a key player in the aviation sector, heralding a new era of connectivity and service for travelers in Rhode Island and beyond.

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Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER

PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.

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