Fresno Yosemite International Airport officials project 2018 will be a milestone year for passenger volume. Photo by David Castellon

Fresno Yosemite International Airport served more than 480,000 passengers in July, August and September of this year, a record for any third quarter in the airport’s history.

That’s a 21-percent increase in domestic and international passenger traffic compared to the same period in 2017.

“With consistent growth throughout the year, the airport is on pace to set a passenger volume milestone in 2018,” states a press release from the city’s airport authority.

Record passenger growth in 2018 is expected to push Fresno Yosemite International’s annual economic impact for the region to $900 million with continued job growth, it continues.

“We appreciate Central Valley travelers for choosing Fresno Yosemite International Airport, as well as our airline partners, for continued efforts to provide a diverse mix of market choices and added seat capacity,” Kevin Meikle, Fresno’s director of aviation, said in the release.

“Fresno Yosemite International’s planned expansion program to accommodate current and future growth will ensure the airport continues to be a viable global transportation gateway and a resource to the region’s vibrant economy.”

The recent installation of a new passenger boarding bridge and a remodel of gates 6 and 8 are the first of many expansion projects the airport has initiated to accommodate current and future growth, the news release states.

The remodeled gate areas provide new seating, charging outlets and dynamic signage in an open space setting complemented by a new passenger bridge for quick and easy boarding, it continues.