Ontario International Airport adopted a new Use and Lease Agreement (ULA) on July 24, 2025, marking a major change for the airport and its airline partners. The Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) approved the agreement at a public meeting, aiming to support the airport’s rapid growth and future expansion. This decision comes as Ontario International Airport continues to set new records for passenger numbers and expands its role as a key international gateway in Southern California.
The new ULA replaces the previous agreement with a more modern, transparent, and flexible structure. It reflects current best practices in the airport industry and aligns with ONT’s strategic goals. The agreement was reached after months of negotiations between the OIAA and all commercial airline partners operating at the airport. OIAA President Alan D. Wapner signed the resolution, General Counsel Lori D. Ballance certified the legal form, and Chief Executive Officer Atif Elkadi is responsible for day-to-day operations and capital development.
Key Policy Changes and What They Mean
The new Use and Lease Agreement brings several important changes:
- Modernized Framework: The ULA introduces a structure that is easier to understand and more adaptable to changes in the industry. This helps the airport respond quickly to new opportunities and challenges.
- Strategic Alignment: The agreement supports ONT’s plans for investing in infrastructure, planning for future growth, and handling more passengers and cargo.
- Capital Improvement Oversight: For large projects that cost more than a set amount (after grants and passenger facility charges, adjusted each year for inflation), a majority of signatory airlines must approve the spending. This gives airlines a direct say in major airport investments and encourages teamwork between the airport and its partners.
- Revenue and Rate Structure: The ULA sets out how airline rates and charges are decided, including how the costs of new projects are shared among airlines. It also explains how interest and other financial obligations are covered through these charges.
- Lease Terms: The agreement covers how airlines use the terminals, how long leases last, and how they can be renewed. It also allows for flexibility to welcome new airlines and expand services, which supports ONT’s growth as a regional and international hub.
Financial Details and Recent Investments
Ontario International Airport has made significant investments in its facilities:
- Capital Projects: The budget for 2025-26 includes major spending on runways, terminals, and security. For example, the Runway 26R Instrument Landing System Upgrade Project has a total budget of $15,750,885. This includes a $142,429.60 agreement with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and $248,455 for construction administration.
- TSA Expansion: An $11 million project to expand TSA security screening is underway, with $7 million coming from FAA grants. This project will add three new screening lanes and modern exit corridors, making it faster and easier for passengers to get through security.
- Passenger Growth: ONT set new records for passenger numbers in 2025, thanks to new international routes and more airline service. The airport is now a primary medium hub, with over 2.2 million annual enplanements as of 2021 and even higher numbers expected for 2025.
Background and Context
The Ontario International Airport Authority was created through a partnership between the City of Ontario and San Bernardino County to operate and develop the airport. Previous use and lease agreements were less flexible and did not fully match ONT’s growing role as a global gateway. In recent years, the airport has upgraded runways, terminals, and amenities, and developed a large logistics park called The HUB. Four of nine buildings in The HUB are expected to be leased by the end of 2025, supporting cargo and regional economic growth.
Looking Ahead: Growth and Community Impact
The new ULA is expected to attract more airlines, increase international service, and support ongoing improvements to the airport’s infrastructure. ONT is positioning itself as Southern California’s newest global gateway, with expanded routes to Asia and Mexico and a focus on both passenger and cargo operations.
The HUB logistics complex will create new jobs, bring in property and sales tax revenue for the City of Ontario, and provide steady annual lease revenue to the airport. Improved airport facilities and services will make travel easier for passengers and strengthen connections across the region.
Environmental and Accessibility Initiatives
ONT is also working on projects to make the airport more sustainable and accessible. These include:
- Upgrading to LED lighting to save energy
- Installing pre-conditioned air units for aircraft
- Adding family restrooms for travelers with children
- Launching the ONT+ visitor pass system to make it easier for guests to access the terminal
Expert and Stakeholder Perspectives
OIAA CEO Atif Elkadi says that partnerships, innovation, and sustainable growth are key to ONT’s strategy. The new ULA gives airlines more input into capital planning and operational decisions, which helps align the interests of the airport and its partners. City and county officials point to the economic and logistical benefits of ONT’s expansion and modernization.
How the Agreement Was Adopted
The Use and Lease Agreement was negotiated with airline partners, reviewed by the Airport and Airline Affairs Committee, and formally adopted by the OIAA Commission at a public meeting on July 24, 2025. The agreement took effect immediately and now governs all airline operations, leases, and capital project approvals at Ontario International Airport.
Where to Find More Information
For official details, visit the Ontario International Airport Authority’s website, where you can find the full text of the ULA and related documents. The site also has the latest news and updates about airport projects and policies. For questions about capital development, you can contact Maria Cuarezma, the Capital Development Procurement Representative, at [email protected].
What This Means for Travelers and the Community
Travelers can expect shorter wait times, better facilities, and more flight options as ONT continues to grow. The airport’s focus on sustainability and accessibility will make it easier for everyone to use its services. The community will benefit from new jobs, increased tax revenue, and improved regional connections.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Ontario International Airport’s adoption of the new Use and Lease Agreement is a big step forward, giving the airport and its partners the tools they need to keep growing and improving. As reported by VisaVerge.com, this move sets the stage for ONT to become a leading international gateway for Southern California, with benefits for travelers, airlines, and the local community alike.
For more information on airport regulations and agreements, you can also visit the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Compliance page, which provides official guidance on airport use and lease agreements.
Ontario International Airport’s new Use and Lease Agreement, adopted by the OIAA, is a model for how airports and airlines can work together to support growth, improve services, and create lasting value for their communities.
Learn Today
Use and Lease Agreement (ULA) → A contract governing airline leases, operations, and capital project approvals at an airport.
Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) → The entity managing and developing Ontario International Airport for the City of Ontario and San Bernardino County.
Capital Improvement → Large investment projects to upgrade or build airport infrastructure like runways and terminals.
TSA Expansion → Increase in Transportation Security Administration screening lanes and security facilities to improve passenger processing.
Instrument Landing System → A navigation aid that helps pilots land safely during low visibility conditions.
This Article in a Nutshell
Ontario International Airport adopted a modern Use and Lease Agreement to support growth, enhance infrastructure, increase flights, and improve passenger experience at Southern California’s key gateway by 2025.
— By VisaVerge.com
