July 16, 2025

Huntsville International Airport Sees Record Passenger Influx

News Summary

Huntsville International Airport (HSV) achieved a remarkable milestone in June by welcoming 160,455 passengers, marking a 9.1% increase from the previous year. This growth occurred even as rail cargo traffic saw a significant decline due to tariffs affecting trade. Despite the drop in rail cargo, the airport is successfully attracting new clients, especially in auto parts transportation. Airport upgrades worth $7.1 million are set to enhance facilities and improve passenger experience, funded by a federal grant aimed at improving transportation infrastructure.

Huntsville reports record passenger numbers at International Airport amid declines in rail cargo traffic

Huntsville International Airport (HSV) achieved an impressive milestone in June, welcoming a total of 160,455 passengers, marking a record for the second consecutive month. This figure represents a 9.1% increase compared to June 2024 and a 4.7% increase year-to-date. The news was shared during a meeting of airport directors by CEO Butch Roberts, emphasizing the airport’s ongoing growth and success in attracting travelers.

In contrast to the surge in passenger numbers, rail cargo traffic at the airport’s International Intermodal Center faced a significant decline. The center reported 2,198 rail lifts in June, which is a decrease of 10.1% year-over-year and a striking 50% drop from March’s record, which saw 4,400 lifts. This decline can be linked to several tariffs imposed by the U.S. on various countries, leading to increased consumer prices. Roberts noted that companies are now adjusting their inventory strategies in response to these tariff challenges.

Barbie Peek, the airport’s chief business development officer, indicated that, despite the decline in rail cargo, the airport is successfully acquiring new customers. The airport is witnessing growth in specific sectors, particularly in the transportation of auto engine parts and general merchandise. This positive development highlights the airport’s adaptability in the face of shifting market conditions.

Air cargo freight also experienced a downturn in June. Weights totaled just over 5 million pounds, representing a 29.5% decrease compared to June 2024 and down 22% year-to-date. This decline is partially due to the recent merger of European airfreight forwarding companies DSV and DB Schenker, which has created the largest global firm in the industry. As DSV adapts to its expanded fleet, an increase in business is expected at Huntsville, providing a possible boost to air cargo operations.

Infrastructure Upgrades at the Airport

In order to enhance passenger experience and accommodate the growing number of travelers, airport directors have approved up to $7.1 million in upgrades to the airport concourse. Planned improvements include the replacement of tiles with terrazzo, as well as the installation of powered seating and tables. Additionally, upgrades to carpets and ceiling tiles will be undertaken to refresh the terminal’s appearance.

Further enhancements will expand the security screening queuing area, remove central planters, and add new lighting throughout the terminal. These additional improvements are expected to cost up to $825,613. The funding for these upgrades is provided through a grant under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law of 2021, which aims to improve transportation infrastructure across the country.

Conclusion

The contrasting trends at Huntsville International Airport—record passenger numbers alongside declining rail cargo traffic—illustrate the complex dynamics of the current transportation and logistics landscape. The airport is focusing on adapting to these changes, employing strategies to attract new customers and enhance facilities. The recent upgrades, supported by federal funding, aim to accommodate the growing passenger volume while addressing the challenges posed by changes in trade policies and competition in the air cargo sector.

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Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER

The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison 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 Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.

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