Memorial Day Holiday travel soared at Charleston International

(North Charleston)— The Memorial Holiday travel period soared 27 percent over 2023, keeping Charleston International Airport on track toward another year of record-breaking passenger numbers.

The airport saw nearly 110,000 passengers flying in and out of CHS during the Memorial Day Holiday period which stretched from the Thursday before the holiday until Memorial Day. In 2023, a little over 86,000 passengers traveled during the Memorial Day Holiday period.

“The numbers are incredible, but not surprising,” said Elliott Summey, Executive Director and CEO of the Charleston County Aviation Authority. “Memorial Day traditionally kicks off the summer travel season and people take advantage of the long weekend to go on vacations, visit family and friends, or simply get away for a bit.”

Passenger growth at Charleston International Airport continues to be bolstered by the addition of ultra-low-cost carriers and long-time airlines at CHS. Airlines continue to expand service by offering additional routes and flying larger aircraft that seat more people and adding new destinations.

CHS continues to compliment the region's economic development efforts whether for a business traveler or a tourist. Just last week, The College of Charleston released a new study that estimated more than 7.9 million people visited the Lowcountry during 2023. During that same time, CHS saw more than 6 million passengers.

“We’ve witnessed and been a part of a big shift in travel,” said Summey, “Charleston isn’t just a world-class destination for leisure travelers – it is at the center of economic development in the Lowcountry and state of South Carolina.”