Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ): History, Passenger Traffic & Future Development

If you are planning a trip to New Mexico, Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) is your major gateway to this beautiful state. It is also known as “the Sunport” and offers travelers in Albuquerque city a unique experience, combining modern facilities with the rich cultural heritage of the American Southwest. Its Pueblo architectural style and growing passenger traffic make it a one-of-a-kind travel experience.

Overview of Albuquerque International Sunport

Located just 3 miles southeast of downtown Albuquerque, the Sunport serves the entire Albuquerque metropolitan area and the Albuquerque-Santa Fe-Los Alamos region. The strategic location of this airport, between the Rio Grande River and the Sandia Mountains, is significant, as it is close to important landmarks such as the University of New Mexico, Sandia National Laboratories, and Kirtland Air Force Base.

With over 5 million annual passengers and around 80 daily flights, Albuquerque International Sunport serves as a key gateway to New Mexico. It is also a focus city for Southwest Airlines, which carries over half of all passengers traveling through the Sunport.

Some other major airlines that operate from this airport are:

• American Airlines

• Delta Air Lines

• United Airlines

• JetBlue

• Alaska Airlines

• Sun Country Airlines

A Look at History

The history of Albuquerque's aviation scene began in 1928 when the original Albuquerque Airport was opened. Over the course of its history, various airlines, including pioneers such as Transcontinental Air Transport, have been operating in this region.

However, in 1939, Albuquerque opened its new airport, designed in a Pueblo style. From this point onwards, it marked the beginning of the airport’s transformation into today’s Sunport. The airport's history can be summarized as follows:

• 1963: Renamed Albuquerque Sunport

• 1971: Became an International Airport

• 1989: Significant expansion work done

• 1994: Officially Renamed Albuquerque International Sunport

It can be added here that the airport's runways are also utilized by Kirtland Air Force Base, thus making it a joint airport, which further increases its importance.

Passenger Traffic Growth

It can be said here that this airport's traffic has been growing over the course of recent history, thus increasing its importance.

Despite a slight decline in 2025, overall trends indicate a robust recovery and sustained demand for air travel in the region.

Terminal and Facilities

Albuquerque International Sunport has a single terminal with 25 gates located in multiple concourses. Originally built in 1965, the airport has been expanded and renovated over time to give travelers a comfortable and efficient experience.

However, what makes Albuquerque International Sunport unique and different from other airports around the world is its Pueblo Revival style. This style has been inspired by Tiwa and Hispano cultures from the region, giving the airport a unique identity and look different from other contemporary airport designs.

Inside the airport, travelers can find a variety of facilities such as:

• National retail outlets such as Hudson News

• Quick food options like Panda Express

• Local food options like Black Mesa Coffee and Rio Grande Brew Pub & Grill

• Traditional New Mexican food options like Tia Juanita’s and Comida Buena

Airlines and Flight Connectivity

The Sunport airport provides Albuquerque with connections to major cities across America through various airlines offering non-stop and connecting flights. In general, it offers 83 average daily flights; however, this number tends to go much higher during peak events like the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.

It also provides cargo facilities for various airlines, such as:

• FedEx Express

• UPS Airlines

• Amazon Prime Air

Unique Features of the Sunport

One of the more interesting aspects of ABQ airport is its cultural appeal. Unlike other airports, this one celebrates its cultural identity through its:

• Southwestern-style architecture

• Native American-style decorations

• Local art

It was ranked 5th among medium-sized U.S. airports in terms of customer satisfaction in a survey conducted by J.D. Power in 2023.

Future Development Plans

In terms of future development, the Sunport has a number of expansion plans under its long-term master strategy, including:

• The development of a second terminal to accommodate growing passenger numbers

• The Destination Sunport project, which aims to transform a large tract of land into a business hub

• Enhanced infrastructures and upgrade works

These development plans are meant to make ABQ a more competitive and efficient airport in the near future.

Final Thoughts

The Albuquerque International Sunport is more than just an airport; it is a gateway to a city and a state, a reflection of its spirit and culture. With its steady growth in passenger numbers, its airline alliances, and its unique and distinctive architecture, ABQ promises travelers a unique and convenient experience.

Whether your visit to New Mexico is for business, pleasure, or to witness the famous Balloon Fiesta, the Sunport promises a fantastic experience from takeoff to touchdown.