The Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport Authority Board voted today to rename the airport to Mesa Gateway Airport, effective immediately.

The change follows Phoenix’s withdrawal from the board and better aligns with the airport’s strategic vision for the future, according to a release.

“This name change reflects the tremendous growth and economic vitality of the East Valley,” Queen Creek Mayor Julia Wheatley, chair of the Mesa Gateway Airport Authority Board, said. “With the collaborative support of Mesa, Gilbert, Apache Junction, Queen Creek, and the Gila River Indian Community, Mesa Gateway Airport is positioned to continue serving as a vital transportation asset for our region’s 1.5 million residents and as a secondary air travel hub to the metro region.”

The decision comes at a time of unprecedented growth for the airport, which served nearly 2 million passengers in FY23.

Earlier this year, Mesa Gateway Airport expanded its facilities with a new 30,000-square-foot concourse featuring five additional gates, demonstrating its commitment to meeting increasing demand.

“As the 36th largest city in the United States, Mesa has emerged as a hub for innovation and technology in the region,” Mesa Mayor John Giles said. “This name change aligns perfectly with Mesa and the East Valley’s growing reputation as a prime location for business investment and development, anchored by major employers like Amazon, ASU, Banner, Boeing, LG Energy Solution, and Northrop Grumman.”

The airport’s expansion mirrors the region’s tourism sector. In 2023, Mesa welcomed 4.4 million visitors who generated $748.6 million in direct visitor spending, supported 5,647 jobs, and contributed $84.7 million in state and local taxes.

Mesa Gateway Airport serves 45 nonstop destinations through carriers, including Allegiant Air and Sun Country Airlines, and continues to expand its routes. Allegiant recently announced a new route to Colorado Springs starting in February 2025.