Press Room

Posted on: Fri, 09/01/2017 - 13:52

ONTARIO, Calif. – September 1, 2017 – China Airlines’ statement confirms the airport’s status as an emerging global gateway, one with the infrastructure, facilities and services to accommodate the increasing demand for international air travel to Southern California.

“We are grateful for China Airlines’ interest in beginning service to Ontario. Nonstop service to Taoyuan would add to the growing number of international and domestic routes that have made ONT a gateway airport for the Southern California region,” said Alan D. Wapner, president of the Ontario International Airport Authority and Mayor pro Tem of the City of Ontario. He added that airlines are increasingly bullish as they learn more about ONT’s runways, terminal facilities and Federal Inspection Station.

Wapner and San Bernardino County Supervisor and OIAA Commissioner Curt Hagman have traveled to China to promote ONT as a destination in meetings with airlines. “The word is out that Ontario is poised to be the next great international gateway in Southern California,” said Hagman. “We have invested considerable time and energy in educating the aviation industry about all that ONT has to offer, and the responses have been overwhelmingly positive.”

“ONT has room to grow, and with the continued support of our political, business and community leaders, Ontario will be the Southern California destination of choice for domestic and international airlines,” said Wapner. “While an agreement with China Airlines is not yet complete, we have made good progress and look forward to continuing our discussions.”

Since the City of Ontario assumed control of ONT 10 months ago, tireless efforts have been made to add air service with long-time tenant airlines and attract new airlines to increase options for air travelers. Those efforts have shown tremendous results.

Passenger volumes have grown month over month. Improvements have been made to security screening areas and the airport’s ground transportation program has been expanded to include app-based ride hailing services. Most recently, steps have been taken to improve concessions. ONT’s guest experience improves steadily, making it an attractive, hassle-free destination.