The Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority hosted 50.6 million total passengers in 2023, setting a new travel record at Reagan National and Dulles International airports. This achievement was driven by strong demand at both airports, resulting in a new passenger record at Reagan National and an international passenger record at Dulles International.

“Setting a new record is a remarkable accomplishment that can be credited to continuing recovery from the COVID pandemic and the hard work of our airport team and their partners,” said Jack Potter, Airports Authority president and CEO. “We are not slowing down as upgrades continue for our customers at Reagan National, as well as a new concourse at Dulles International. Our team thrives on recruiting new airline service and finding new ways to provide an outstanding travel experience while planning to meet the region’s long-term transportation needs.”

Reagan National 2023 Results

Reagan National broke its all-time passenger traffic record with 25.5 million passengers in 2023. This count exceeded the previous record in 2022 by 6.2 percent, despite flight reductions to accommodate a runway rehabilitation project and capacity limitations at New York City airports. To further improve the passenger experience, DCA Reimagined is underway to upgrade Terminal 2 restroom facilities, enhance shopping and dining options and create innovative spaces to relax at the gates and throughout the terminals.

Dulles International 2023 Results

As the fastest growing international gateway airport in the United States, Dulles International raised the bar in 2023 with 9.3 million international passengers – a new record that exceeded 2022’s international activity by 26.9 percent. Combined with domestic activity, the airport logged 25.1 million passengers for the year. The upward trend can be credited to a strong resurgence in travel demand that led to eight new airlines launching nonstop flights to destinations around the globe over the past two years. With new flights announced for 2024, this brings the airport’s total to 42 airlines and 139 destinations (80 domestic, 59 international).

Growth is expected to continue in 2024, including new service on:

• American to Bermuda
• American to Hyannis, Massachusetts
• AeroMexico to Mexico City
• Allegiant to Punta Gorda, Florida  
• Southern Airways Express to Williamsport, Pennsylvania
• Southwest to Phoenix  
• Sun Country to Minneapolis
• Swiss International to Zurich
• United to Anchorage
• United to Vancouver 
• United Express to Philadelphia, Harrisburg, State College and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania 

In addition, Lufthansa plans to upgrade its Munich flight on June 1 to the Airbus A380, the world’s largest passenger aircraft.