The Palm Springs International Airport is not yet LAX. But it seems to be on a sort of Los Angeles-style trajectory when looking at the increasing number of passengers making their way through the 16-gate airport.
Passenger counts in 2012 were 14.3 percent higher than passenger counts in 2011.
The increased numbers are multi-fold, say airport officials.
Bob Elsner, who chairs the Palm Springs International Airport Commission, points to an improving tourism economy, but also a growing population base in the Coachella Valley and improved and increased commercial air service.
And then of course, making your way through Palm Springs’ airport is a walk in the park — somewhat literally, given the outdoor lawn area travelers can enjoy after clearing security — compared to large airports.
“Having been named one of America’s ‘most stress-free airports’ by SmarterTravel.com has helped boost passenger volume,” Elsner wrote in a recent email.
December marked the airport’s 14th consecutive month of year-over-year growth, according to airport statistics, as 176,595 passengers moved through the airport, a 7.1 percent increase.
“All in all, traveling in and out of Palm Springs International Airport is pleasurable and ‘hassle-free,’ ” Elsner said.
“I don’t think the record growth in 2012 can be attributed to a single factor — but instead it is most likely a combination of many favorable assets,” he added.
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