Halifax Airport Sets Record with 6.1% Growth in U.S. Traffic Amid National Decline

Halifax Stanfield International Airport has achieved a remarkable 6.1% increase in U.S. travel in 2025, making it the sole major Canadian airport to report growth in transborder traffic amidst a national decline. While most airports in Canada saw a drop in U.S.-bound passengers, Halifax’s success underscores its growing role as a vital gateway for both business and leisure travel. Contributing to this surge are the airport’s pre-clearance facilities, which simplify U.S. travel for Canadians, and the growing demand for cruises to Florida and other U.S. destinations. This surge, coupled with Halifax’s expanding global connectivity, positions the airport as a standout performer in a year when many Canadians were hesitant to travel to the U.S.

This growth in traffic contrasts with broader trends in Canada, where many Canadians are choosing to avoid travel to the U.S. due to political tensions, particularly in response to U.S. tariffs and other policy shifts. Despite this sentiment, Halifax reported a 6.1 per cent increase in U.S.-bound passenger traffic, a testament to the airport’s unique appeal to both business and leisure travellers.

In the wake of geopolitical challenges, Canadians’ reluctance to visit the U.S. has become a notable trend. Statistics Canada’s report indicates that many Canadians are actively avoiding U.S. destinations. Yet, Halifax bucked this national trend, making its rise in U.S. travel even more significant. This uptick can be attributed to several factors, with cruise travel and business connections emerging as key contributors.

Halifax Stanfield has become an increasingly important hub for Atlantic Canadians, as well as for global passengers seeking convenient access to U.S. destinations. The airport’s robust facilities, including U.S. pre-clearance capabilities, have provided added convenience for travellers, making Halifax an attractive departure point for those seeking easier entry into the U.S. This service allows Canadian passengers to clear U.S. immigration before they even board their flights, offering them a smoother and more predictable travel experience.

Cruise travel has also played a vital role in the surge of U.S.-bound traffic. Florida, known for its popular cruise ports, has emerged as a top destination for Halifax travellers. With Halifax serving as a key departure point for cruise passengers, many are choosing to fly to Florida before embarking on their cruise journeys. Additionally, other U.S. business destinations such as California, Texas, Las Vegas, and New York continue to be popular among Atlantic Canadians, reinforcing Halifax’s importance as a transborder hub.

Statistics Canada’s findings highlight Halifax Stanfield’s growing role in transborder travel. While many other Canadian airports faced declines in U.S.-bound traffic, Halifax bucked the trend with a notable increase. According to the airport, this rise reflects the airport’s broader role as a critical gateway for the Atlantic region, with both domestic and international growth driving its success.

International traffic has also shown strong growth at the airport. Halifax served over 4.1 million passengers in 2025, an increase of 4 per cent from the previous year. The number of international passengers surpassed 525,000, marking a 19.3 per cent jump from the approximately 440,000 international travellers in 2024. This growth is a clear indication of Halifax’s expanding reach and growing reputation as an international gateway.

The airport’s success is not limited to international routes. Domestic travel remains the most significant sector at Halifax Stanfield, with more than 3.27 million passengers contributing to a 1.5 per cent increase in domestic traffic. The airport’s ability to cater to both domestic and international travellers has allowed it to maintain strong growth despite the challenges faced by other airports in Canada.

Looking ahead, Halifax Stanfield International Airport is set to continue its expansion. In 2026, the airport will offer a total of 57 non-stop services, including 15 non-stop flights to Europe. This growth reflects the airport’s commitment to expanding its network and increasing connectivity to key international markets. The airport will continue to serve as a critical hub for travel to North America, Europe, and the Caribbean.

Halifax’s airport has become one of the most connected airports of its size in North America, with a growing list of destinations and services. As one of the top gateways in the Atlantic region, Halifax Stanfield is enhancing its capacity to meet the growing demands of both leisure and business travellers, further cementing its role as a key international hub.

The airport’s achievements in 2025 are a reflection of Halifax’s strategic importance in Canadian air travel. With its increasing connectivity, expanded international services, and strong passenger growth, Halifax Stanfield is positioning itself for continued success in the coming years. The airport’s performance highlights its central role in connecting Atlantic Canada to the world, with a strong focus on both regional and global travel.

Halifax Stanfield International Airport achieved a record 6.1% increase in U.S. traffic in 2025, standing out as the only major Canadian airport to see growth amid a national decline. This success is driven by factors like pre-clearance facilities and rising cruise traffic to U.S. destinations.

In conclusion, Halifax Stanfield International Airport’s growth in 2025 reflects its expanding influence and significance in the global travel network. The airport’s ability to attract more passengers to U.S. destinations, coupled with impressive growth in international traffic, positions it as a key player in Canada’s aviation landscape. As the airport continues to enhance its services and expand its connectivity, it is set to remain a vital gateway for Atlantic Canadians and international travellers alike.

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