Tweed-New Haven Airport Hits 4 Million Passengers Milestone, Boosting Southern Connecticut Tourism and Economic Growth
The milestone highlights Tweed-New Haven Airport’s record growth and its expanding impact on Southern Connecticut’s economy and tourism
New Haven, CT – Tweed-New Haven Airport (HVN) announced today that it has served over 4 million total passengers since 2020, a milestone that highlights the airport’s remarkable growth and its role as a powerful driver of tourism and economic opportunity for Southern Connecticut.
This achievement is all the more significant given that, for a six-week period during the COVID-19 pandemic, HVN had no commercial air service—the first time since World War II. From that historic low to today’s record-breaking success, the airport’s resurgence represents the most extraordinary period of growth in its 94-year history and a defining chapter in the ongoing rise of New Haven and Southern Connecticut.
That momentum has extended far beyond the airfield—fueling the restaurants, hotels, and small businesses that power Southern Connecticut’s economy. It reflects not only the continued rise in passenger demand but also the ripple effect of HVN’s growth across the region, strengthening the network of industries that support and benefit from expanded air travel.
Highlights include:
- New Haven ranked #8 globally on U.K.-based travel search platform Skyscanner’s “Top Trending Destinations for 2026,” driven by a 39% year-over-year increase in flight searches.
- Car rentals averaged 2,400 in June 2025, a clear signal that more visitors are extending their stays and exploring Southern Connecticut.
- 1.4 million passengers are expected over the next year, including more than 175,000 out-of-state visitors.
- Employment has grown to more than 780 employees across 25 different companies operating on the airport campus—up from just 210 in 2020.
- HVN now offers 33 destinations through Avelo Airlines and Breeze Airways—bringing access to new markets, new destinations, and new possibilities closer to home.
- The airport is projected to generate a $444 million statewide economic impact by 2027, aligned with construction of its new terminal and runway extension plans.
“This achievement underscores what we’ve long known: there is extraordinary demand for convenient and accessible air travel in Southern Connecticut,” said Michael Jones, CEO of The New HVN. “We are deeply grateful for the travelers who choose HVN, the dedicated teams who make up our airport community, and the strong foundation we’ve built together over the past four years to reach this milestone..”
Robert Reed, Chairman of the New Haven Airport Authority, emphasized the importance of this milestone for the community. “This is proof that Tweed has become an essential part of the fabric of New Haven and the region. Every new passenger, every car rental, and every visitor staying in our hotels or dining in our restaurants represents an investment back into our neighborhoods. This growth highlights the wisdom of expanding HVN to meet the needs of travelers while also supporting jobs and economic activity locally.”
Tourism leaders also celebrated the milestone as a win for Connecticut’s broader visitor economy. “Connecticut wins when it’s easier for people to get here, and Tweed is helping make that possible,” said Anthony Anthony, Chief Marketing Officer for the State of Connecticut. “The rise in passenger traffic means more travelers are discovering our shoreline towns, cultural attractions, and unique dining experiences, like the nation’s best pizza. This is a moment of pride for the economic development community and an opportunity to showcase the very best of Southern Connecticut to new audiences.”
HVN’s continued growth reflects sustained demand for air service in Southern Connecticut and reinforces the need for expanded passenger facilities and 21st century infrastructure.
Looking ahead, the 4-million-passenger milestone underscores the importance of the HVN expansion project in meeting growing demand responsibly—while continuing to invest in the community and strengthen Connecticut’s position as a connected, accessible, and thriving destination.
