In November 2025, two airports in the Bay Area saw a drop in passenger numbers. San Jose Mineta International Airport and Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport experienced fewer travelers compared to the same month in 2024. This news is important because it shows how the travel industry is still adjusting after the pandemic. Let’s dive into what’s happening and why these changes matter.
Passenger Numbers Decline at San Jose Mineta International Airport
San Jose Mineta International Airport reported around 831,000 passengers in November 2025. This was a 13% decrease from the nearly 955,000 passengers in November 2024. Airport spokesperson Ana Maria State mentioned that this decline is linked to airline adjustments. Airlines are changing their capacity to better match what travelers need.
State explained, “Airlines at SJC and across the country continue to recalibrate seat capacity and strategies to better match passenger demand.” This means that airlines are trying to provide the right number of seats based on how many people want to fly.
Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport Faces Similar Challenges
Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport also saw fewer travelers. About 704,000 passengers traveled through Oakland in November, which is nearly a 12% drop from the approximately 799,000 passengers from the year before. This number is even lower compared to the 1.07 million passengers in November 2019, before the pandemic.
Spokesperson Kaley Skantz pointed out that a big reason for this decrease is the drop in business travel within California. She said, “We will continue working with existing and potential new carriers and encouraging them to add new service at OAK.” This means they are trying to attract more airlines to offer flights from Oakland.
Efforts to Boost Oakland Airport Traffic
OAK is introducing new services to attract more travelers.
They are using air service incentive programs to encourage airlines to add flights.
A name change to Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport aims to raise awareness of its location.
Understanding the Decline in Traffic
Experts believe several factors are causing the drop in passenger numbers at these airports. Henry Harteveldt, a travel analyst, noted that Oakland has many budget airline flights. While this is great for customers looking for low fares, it can backfire. Many budget airline travelers are feeling the squeeze of the affordability crisis, leading to less money available for travel.
“One challenge that Oakland faces is, ironically, having perhaps more budget airline flights than either of the other two Bay Area airports,” Harteveldt said. “Unfortunately, the budget airlines’ core customers are among those feeling the financial pinch the most.”
Comparing with San Francisco International Airport
In contrast, San Francisco International Airport (SFO) experienced growth. Around 4.29 million passengers flew through SFO in November, marking a nearly 2% increase from 2024 and a return to near pre-pandemic levels. Harteveldt explained that SFO has a wider range of airlines and routes.
SFO has more coast-to-coast non-stop flights.
It offers greater access to major airline hubs.
SFO has more international destinations compared to Oakland and San Jose.
Looking Ahead: Future of Bay Area Airports
The situation at Bay Area airports is evolving. As airlines adjust their routes and capacities, it is unclear how quickly passenger numbers will recover. The decline in business travel may linger, affecting both Oakland and San Jose for a while. Airports will need to find new ways to attract travelers, especially as they face competition from SFO.
Airports may focus on bringing in more airlines.
They could enhance services to appeal to budget travelers.
New marketing strategies might help raise awareness.
In summary, while San Jose and Oakland airports are struggling with passenger numbers, SFO is bouncing back. The travel landscape is changing, and how these airports adapt will play a big role in their future success.
