Southwest Florida continues to attract people from across the country. Increasingly, the numbers at our airports are telling the story. For anyone who lives in, works in or is considering moving to Naples, the growth and investment taking place at Southwest Florida’s airports is more than just an aviation story. It is another indication of how quickly our area is growing and how important Southwest Florida has become as a destination for business, tourism and relocation.
RSW: Millions of Passengers and Counting
Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers remains the region’s major commercial gateway. In 2025, RSW welcomed more than 11.1 million passengers, placing it among the top 50 airports in the United States for passenger traffic! That’s an impressive stat! 2026 has continued to demonstrate just how busy the airport can be as March set an all-time monthly record with 1,521,149 passengers, an increase of 3.9% over March 2025. June alone, typically considered “off-season”, saw another 689,514 passengers travel through RSW. The airport itself is also growing. RSW is in the midst of a major terminal expansion designed to improve efficiency while adding amenities and options for travelers. For a region that depends heavily on tourism and attracts thousands of new residents each year, convenient air service is a very important piece of the puzzle.
Punta Gorda Airport Is Expanding, Too
To the north, Punta Gorda Airport (PGD) is experiencing its own remarkable growth. PGD handled a record 2,282,002 passengers in 2025, an 18.5% increase over its previous record set in 2024. The airport is responding with a major expansion of its Bailey Terminal. In August, PGD opened new Departure Gates 7–12, giving passengers more room and improving the airport experience while construction continues. Additional gates, a new TSA checkpoint, new food and beverage options and other improvements are still on the way. The completed expansion is expected to bring the terminal to 12 total gates.
And Now… Commercial Air Service Returns to Naples
Perhaps the most exciting development for those of us in Naples is happening right here at Naples Airport. American Airlines plans to begin nonstop service between Naples (APF) and Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) on December 2, 2026. Charlotte is one of American’s largest hubs, which means the significance goes far beyond simply getting to North Carolina. For Naples residents, second-home owners and visitors, this creates another convenient connection to destinations throughout the country and beyond.
What Does This Mean for Naples?
Airports are often a reflection of the communities they serve as well as the need of the consumer…more passengers, more gates and more flight options mean more people are discovering and choosing to return to Southwest Florida. For Naples, increased accessibility can be especially meaningful. Our real estate clients are relocating from other states and they want convenience. Second-home owners want easier access to their Florida property, visitors want more choices, and businesses benefit when employees, clients and customers can reach the region more easily.
The bottom line? Southwest Florida is becoming easier to get to, and that is another reason Naples continues to be one of the most desirable places to live, visit and invest.
As our airports expand and air service continues to grow, we will be watching the numbers. Because sometimes, the best way to understand where Southwest Florida is headed is simply to look at who is flying here.
Are You Ready to Make Southwest Florida Home?
With more flights, more passengers and more people discovering everything Southwest Florida has to offer, the journey to Naples is becoming easier than ever.
If you’re considering a move to Naples, purchasing a second home, or simply exploring what life here could look like, the NaplesRealEstate.com Team is here to help. From finding the right neighborhood and home to understanding the local market and navigating every step of the relocation process, we have the experience and local knowledge to make your move to Naples as seamless as possible. When you’re ready to explore your next chapter in Naples, we’d love to be your resource. Visit NaplesRealEstate.com or reach out to our team—we’re here to help you find your way home.
Wishing you safe travels and a smooth journey to your next home!
The Naples Real Estate Blogger
