Mesa’s regional airport is taking flight with a fresh identity, officially rebranded as Mesa Gateway Airport. This renaming marks a pivotal shift as the City of Phoenix steps back from its operational partnership, paving the way for a future aligned with Mesa’s emergence as a hub of innovation and economic growth.
A Strategic Vision for Mesa’s Regional Hub
The decision to rename the airport was made by the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport Authority Board, representing a collective effort by Mesa, Gilbert, Apache Junction, Queen Creek, and the Gila River Indian Community. With Phoenix’s withdrawal, which contributed $1.3 million annually (about 1% of the airport’s operating budget), the remaining partners are poised to lead Mesa Gateway into a bold new era.
This move aligns with the region’s increasing prominence as a hotspot for business development. Major corporations like Amazon, Boeing, LG Energy Solution, and Northrop Grumman have established a presence in Mesa, highlighting the area’s growing significance in the technology and innovation sectors.
Record-Breaking Growth and Expansions
Mesa Gateway Airport has been experiencing an unprecedented surge in passenger numbers. June 2024 saw over 158,000 commercial passengers, setting a new record for the month, while the airport served 1.8 million passengers in the fiscal year, its second-best year ever.
To accommodate this growth, the airport recently unveiled a 30,000-square-foot concourse with five additional gates. This expansion is part of ongoing efforts to meet the demands of both regional travelers and the booming tourism sector in Mesa, which welcomed 4.4 million visitors in 2023. These visitors generated $748.6 million in direct spending, supported thousands of jobs, and contributed significantly to state and local taxes.
Infrastructure Investments Shaping the Future
Mesa Gateway is investing heavily in infrastructure to enhance its operational capacity. A $45 million runway reconstruction project, the largest in the airport’s history, is currently underway. Funded through a federal grant, the two-year initiative underscores the airport’s commitment to long-term growth and efficiency.
Additionally, the SkyBridge Arizona project continues to position Mesa Gateway as a key player in international commerce. As the nation’s only joint U.S.-Mexico customs hub, SkyBridge Arizona simplifies cross-border shipments, bypassing Mexico City and allowing goods to reach their destinations faster. Once completed, the development will include over 3 million square feet of aeronautical, non-aeronautical, and commercial space, fostering even more economic activity.
Expanding Connectivity
Mesa Gateway Airport currently serves 45 nonstop destinations, with airlines like Allegiant Air and Sun Country Airlines offering increasing options for travelers. The recent announcement of a new route to Colorado Springs, starting February 2025, adds to the airport’s growing network.
A Bright Future for Mesa and the East Valley
The rebranding of Mesa Gateway Airport reflects the city’s dynamic growth and strategic importance. From record-breaking passenger traffic to groundbreaking infrastructure projects, the airport is poised to play a central role in the East Valley’s evolution as a premier destination for business, tourism, and innovation.
As Mesa Gateway Airport continues to expand its facilities and routes, it not only supports regional economic development but also enhances the travel experience for millions of passengers annually. This transformation signals a bright future for the airport and the vibrant community it serves.
