Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport set a new for total passengers in 2015, serving more than 44 million travelers. Year-end numbers have been released and show a 4.5 percent increase in total passengers compared to 2014. The previous record for annual passengers at America’s Friendliest Airport had been set in 2007 when Sky Harbor served nearly 42.2 million passengers.

“When Sky Harbor is busy that means our economy is busy,” said Mayor Greg Stanton. “The airport is our largest economic engine and attracts nearly $29 billion a year, so this is excellent news for Phoenix.”

Last year was a big year for Phoenix Sky Harbor with the airport setting a single-day passenger record on Feb. 2, the day after Super Bowl XLIX.  In addition, Sky Harbor served more than 4.2 million passengers in March, making it the busiest month in the Airport’s history.

Offering nonstop service to more than 100 destinations, Phoenix Sky Harbor has made many improvements to its facilities since 2007, including adding the PHX Sky Train which connects airport terminals with parking facilities and Valley Metro Light Rail, and a complete overhaul of its food and beverage options in Terminal 4.

Currently, the airport is upgrading Terminal 3 as part of a Modernization Program that will include a consolidated security checkpoint to get passengers to their gates more efficiently.

The project, which is taking places in phases through 2020, will also involve rebuilding and expanding the south concourse, revitalizing the north concourse and adding new food and beverage offerings to the terminal. Terminal 4 is also in the process of overhauling its retail program.

“It is crucial that we continue to provide our customers with the highest level of service,” said Director of Aviation Services Jim Bennett.  “This includes investing in our facilities and services so that we can accommodate future growth while also giving travelers an efficient, world-class experience.”