Airlines for America expects an all-time high of 150.7 million passengers to fly globally on U.S. airlines March 1–April 30, equaling 2.47 million per day and a 4 percent increase over 2017. The increase averages 94,000 additional passengers per day, prompting airlines to add 114,000 seats per day.

“Travelers are taking to the skies this spring in record numbers, thanks to persistently low fares; unsurpassed levels of investment in the product; increasing competition; and unprecedented access for passengers of all regions, age groups and income levels,” said John Heimlich, vice president and chief economist, Airlines for America. “An expanding economy, employment gains and surging household net worth are also contributing to the growth in demand for air travel. There has never been a better time to fly, as evidenced by the record number of 151 million flyers expected to travel this spring.”

As demand increases, airlines boost staff and aircraft deliveries. From 2010 to 2017, U.S. airlines used 75 percent of operating cash flow to enhance products, aircraft, entertainment, lounges and airport amenities.

Airports also feel the demand and new development continuously increases across the country. Approximately $130 billion of capital projects were completed, are underway or were approved at the 30 largest U.S. airports alone, up 86 percent from 2015.

“Through high-quality, lucrative careers and significant economic stimulation around the country, U.S. passenger and cargo airlines are dedicated to investment in their people, products and facilities. Airlines serve as valued partners to airports and will continue to do so, without the need for higher taxes on passengers or shippers,” added Heimlich.