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Fresno Yosemite International Airport
Fresno Yosemite International Airport
Fresno Yosemite International Airport
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Fresno Yosemite International Airport (IATA: FAT, ICAO: KFAT, FAA LID: FAT) is a joint military–public airport in Fresno, California, United States. It is the primary commercial airport for the San Joaquin Valley and three national parks: Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon. It offers scheduled passenger flights to several major airline hubs in the United States and international service to Mexico. The facility opened in June 1942 as Hammer Field, a military airfield. The airport is owned and operated by the city of Fresno and operates two runways on a property spanning 1,728 acres (699 ha). Its airport code "FAT" stands for Fresno Air Terminal, a former name for the airport.

Key Information

The airport has seen double-digit growth in its passenger traffic every year since 2018 (except 2020 due to the pandemic). As of 2024, the passenger terminal is undergoing a significant expansion project to expand the size of the security screening area, add new gates, and build a new international arrivals facility.

Due to its central location within the state, the airport is home to several military, law enforcement, firefighting, and medical air units. The Fresno Air National Guard Base on the southeast corner of the airport is home to the 144th Fighter Wing of the California Air National Guard. The Fresno Air Attack Base on the eastern side of the airport supports aerial firefighting aircraft. Other government and military operators with facilities at the airport include the California Army National Guard, the California Highway Patrol, the Fresno County Sheriff's Office, and the Fresno Police Department.

Fresno is home to a large operations base for SkyWest Airlines, the nation's largest regional airline.

History

[edit]

Military beginnings

[edit]

The Fresno Yosemite International Airport opened as a military airfield in June 1942, just six months after Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor, leading the United States to enter World War II. The new airfield was named Hammer Field and was used by the United States Army Air Forces as a training facility for the new pilots of the Fourth Air Force. It had a single northwest/southeast oriented runway with a length of 7,200 feet (now runway 11L/29R).[4]

Curt Teich issued a "Greetings from Hammer Field" large letter postcard

Night fighter training, using Northrop P-61s, was moved to Hammer Field in January 1944, initially with the 481st Night Fighter Operational Training Group, replaced by the 319th Wing in May 1944. Training for the Bell P-59 Airacomet was added to the 319th mission in 1944, as well, confirmed Col. Ralph H. Snavely, commanding officer of the 319th Wing.[5]

At the time, civil and commercial aviation used Chandler Field that had opened in November 1929.[6] Chandler is 1.5 miles (2.4 km) west of downtown Fresno, on a small site. Less than a decade after it opened, it was clear that the small runway at Chandler would not be able to accommodate coming larger airliners.[6]

Conversion to civil use

[edit]

After World War II, Hammer Field was inactivated by the Army Air Forces, and the city of Fresno saw an opportunity to use the site to create a commercial airport much larger than Chandler Field. In 1946, the War Assets Administration reallocated the property to the city, and the construction of a passenger terminal on the northeast side of the airfield was immediately begun. In 1948, the newly renamed Fresno Air Terminal (FAT) opened. Trans World Airlines (TWA) and United Airlines flights to San Francisco/Oakland and Los Angeles moved from Chandler Field to the newly opened airport. Chandler Field was retained by the city of Fresno as a reliever airport and continues to operate as the Fresno Chandler Executive Airport.[7][6]

Strategic Air Command facilities for Convair B-36 operations were initially proposed for “Hammer Air Force Base,” but objections from the City of Fresno led them to be changed to Travis Air Force Base instead. The Fresno upgrade was projected to cost $22.3 million.[8]

The California Air National Guard moved to the airport in the 1950s and established the Fresno Air National Guard Base on the southeast corner of the property. The guard also built munition storage bunkers along the northern edge of the airport grounds.[9] The 194th Fighter Squadron moved to the facility in late 1954, followed by the 144th Fighter Wing in 1957.[10] As the guard moved in, a second parallel runway (11R/29L) was constructed and opened to traffic in 1956.[7]

The original part of the terminal building, which opened in 1962 and includes the mosaic "Sky and Ground"

Construction started on a new, larger passenger terminal in 1959 on the south side of the field.[7] The building was a long, simple shape that housed a baggage claim area, a central lobby, and a ticketing area. The $1.5 million terminal had long walls of glass for the baggage claim and the ticketing areas, which book-ended the central lobby of solid masonry block which bears a venetian glass mosaic called "Sky and Ground" from Raymond Rice.[11][12] From the central lobby, passengers used a tunnel to reach the open-air, remote concourse where they boarded planes from ground level.[7] The terminal opened on March 28, 1962 and shortly after received an award from the San Joaquin Valley Chapter of the American Institute of Architects.[13] Although renovated, the original terminal building is still in use today for the same functions that it was designed for. The current air traffic control tower was built around the same time as the terminal and opened in 1961.[7]

Pacific Air Lines was first to schedule jets to Fresno, with Boeing 727-100s in 1966.[14] United was the dominant carrier at the airport throughout the mid-1970s. At the airlines' peak, United operated daily DC-8s jet service to Denver, San Francisco and Los Angeles. Hughes Airwest and PSA jets also served the airport at this time.[15]

The first significant expansion to the passenger terminal came in 1978 when a concourse was built straight out from the central lobby. This building, unlike the original remote concourse, was enclosed and climate-controlled.[7]

The airport saw significant down-gauging of flights following airline deregulation in 1978. By 1983, the airport mainly saw turboprop service from smaller carriers and United Airlines ended intrastate flights from Fresno.[16] Delta Air Lines operated mainline jets to Los Angeles, Salt Lake City and Reno in the mid-1990s,[17] but by 1999, the only mainline jet flights remaining at Fresno was the American Airlines service to Dallas/Fort Worth.[18]

In 1996, the airport's name was changed from Fresno Air Terminal to Fresno Yosemite International Airport to attract out-of-state and international visitors to Yosemite National Park to the airport. Despite the new name, scheduled international commercial flights would not begin operating in Fresno for nearly a decade.[19] At the time, airport managers petitioned the FAA for a new identifier code to replace FAT, which they said carries a negative connotation and no longer matched the initials of the airport. The request was denied, with the FAA reaffirming its long-standing policy to only issue a new identifier code when an airport is physically relocated.[20] In recent years, airport managers have embraced the FAT identifier code, naming a major expansion project “FATforward.”[21]

Fresno has been the headquarters for a few airlines throughout its history. In the mid-1980s, Far West Airlines was founded in Fresno and used the airport as a small intrastate hub serving Burbank, Los Angeles, Modesto, Oakland, Orange County, Sacramento, and San Jose.[22] Air 21 was founded in Fresno in January 1994 and operated service between several western cities before ceasing operations in January 1997.[23] Allegiant Air was founded in Fresno in January 1997 with a single DC-9, offering charter flights to Tahoe and other destinations. By 1999, it expanded to three planes serving Las Vegas, Burbank, and South Lake Tahoe.[24] After declaring bankruptcy in 2000, its headquarters moved to a Las Vegas suburb under new leadership.[25]

Expansion and remodeling

[edit]
The new concourse with jet bridges

At the turn of the 21st century, the city began a series of projects to expand and remodel the passenger terminal. The first and most notable project was the expansion of the boarding areas. The project, designed by DMJM Aviation, extended the concourse further, creating a new two-level section with six jet bridges. Before this project, passengers boarded all planes using stairs or ramps. When completed in 2002, the new concourse building received praise for its design and was named one of the top 10 projects in Fresno Architecture for the decade, with critics commending the use of steel and the curved glass facade.[26]

A U.S. Customs and Border Protection facility for international arrivals was added in early 2006, giving federal officials space to check passports and complete customs work. Completion of that facility allowed Fresno to begin receiving scheduled international commercial flights. The first international service started in April 2006 with Mexicana operating flights between Fresno and Mexico City with an intermediate stop in Guadalajara.[19]

"Sequoiascape," a public art display inside the terminal that depicts a sequoia forest

With the new concourse extension and new international arrivals facility completed, portions of the original 1960s terminal building were given a major renovation. The project was designed by CSHQA and completed in several phases between 2006 and 2010. While keeping the facility operational, nearly every part of the building was updated, including the baggage claim area, security checkpoint, central lobby, ticketing area, and low-level concourse. The centerpiece of the project was “Sequoiascape,” a public art display in the central terminal lobby that depicts a life-size replica sequoia forest, reflecting the airport's role as a gateway to the nearby national parks. The giant trees appear to be supporting the roof of the terminal. They are surrounded by fallen logs, foliage, and the split rail fencing and granite curbs that visitors would see at the region’s national parks.[27][28][29][30]

A consolidated rental car facility opened at the airport in 2009. The $22 million project allows customers of most rental car companies to pick up and drop off vehicles just outside the terminal. The project also included the construction of maintenance buildings and storage lots on a nearby 11-acre site.[31]

Direct international service from Fresno briefly ended in August 2010 when Mexicana went bankrupt. International service resumed, with more flights, less than a year later when both Aeroméxico and Volaris added service between Fresno and Guadalajara in April 2011.[32][33]

The secondary runway (11R/29L) was widened, lengthened and strengthened in a $30 million project completed in October 2012.[34]

Southwest Airlines began serving the airport on April 25, 2021, the first time the airline provided services at Fresno's airport, with daily flights to Las Vegas and Denver.[35]

The airport added a 917-space, four-level parking garage in November 2021. The project cost $32 million.[36]

Future expansion

[edit]
Parking garage under construction, July 2021

Fresno Yosemite International Airport is currently working on a $127 million expansion project that will make several changes to the terminal, including the addition of a new concourse building with two new gates that can be used for both domestic and international flights, enlarging the screening area for arriving international passengers, expanding the luggage-handling and sorting area for outbound flights, new shopping/dining areas, and expanding the Transportation Security Administration security checkpoint.[37][38]

Airport managers initially anticipated that construction on the terminal expansion would begin in early 2021 and be operational before the summer 2022 travel season.[39] However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the process was delayed, and construction did not start until spring 2023[36] and is now scheduled to be completed in fall 2025.[38][40] The air traffic control tower is also expected to be replaced by 2024 in a $30 million project.[38]

The airport's primary runway (11L/29R) is scheduled to be reconstructed between 2025 and 2027, a $45 million project.[38]

Airline service

[edit]
Alaska Airlines Embraer 175 operated by SkyWest Airlines parked at the gate at Fresno Yosemite International Airport. SkyWest is a major operator from Fresno with a maintenance facility and aircrew base located at the airport.

SkyWest carries about 34% of the passenger traffic at Fresno, more than any other carrier.[2] The regional airline operates under contract with mainline partners as American Eagle, Alaska Airlines, Delta Connection and United Express. SkyWest has a 17-acre (6.9 ha) maintenance and overnight parking facility on the east side of the airfield with 21 aircraft positions and an approximately 92,000-square-foot (8,500 m2) hangar.[7] SkyWest also uses Fresno as a crew base for pilots and flight attendants.[41]

Airlines that operate narrow-body aircraft from either the Airbus A320 family or the Boeing 737 family of jets include Alaska Airlines,[42] Allegiant Air,[43] American Airlines,[44] Delta Air Lines,[45] Southwest Airlines,[46] and United Airlines.[47]

Aeroméxico and Volaris both operate international service between Fresno and Guadalajara, Mexico's second-largest city and a major airline hub in the country.[48][49] Additionally, Volaris also operates service to Morelia, the capital of and largest city in Mexico's Michoacán state and León, the largest city in Mexico's Guanajuato state.[49] Direct international service from Fresno began on April 1, 2006, and are now some of the busiest flights from the airport.[19] As of 2016, international service on Aeroméxico and Volaris accounted for about 6% of all flights to Fresno but carried more than 13% of all passengers flying to the airport, a combined total of almost 201,000 people.[50]

United Airlines is the carrier with the longest continuous operation out of Fresno Yosemite International Airport, which began serving the airport on its opening day alongside Trans World Airlines (TWA) which would later merge into American Airlines.[4]

Infrastructure

[edit]
Check-in counters

Fresno Yosemite International Airport covers 1,728 acres (699 ha) at an elevation of 336 ft (102 m) above mean sea level, with two paved asphalt runways. The primary runway, 11L/29R, is 9,539 by 150 ft (2,907 by 46 m) and the secondary runway, 11R/29L, 8,008 by 150 ft (2,441 by 46 m).[1][51]

In 2022, 2.1 million passengers passed through the Fresno Yosemite International Airport, representing an 11% increase from the previous record set in 2021, when 1.94 million passengers flew in and out of the airport, and breaking the record for most passengers, previously set in 2019.[52][53]

For the year ending February 28, the airport had 92,361 aircraft operations, an average of 253 per day: 54% general aviation, 26% scheduled commercial, 11% air taxi and 8% military. At that time, there were 187 aircraft based at the airport: 100 single-engine, 33 multi-engine, 24 military, 11 jet and 19 helicopter.[1]

Airlines and destinations

[edit]

Passenger

[edit]

As of August 2025, Fresno Yosemite International Airport has non-stop passenger flights scheduled to 13 domestic and 3 international destinations in Mexico, operated by 8 airlines.[54]

AirlinesDestinationsRefs.
Aeroméxico Guadalajara [48]
Alaska Airlines Portland (OR), San Diego, Seattle/Tacoma
 [42]
Allegiant Air Las Vegas, Portland (OR)[55] [43]
American Airlines Dallas/Fort Worth, Phoenix–Sky Harbor [54][44][56]
American Eagle Phoenix–Sky Harbor [54]
Delta Connection Salt Lake City [54][45]
Southwest Airlines Denver, Las Vegas, San Diego[57]
Seasonal: Dallas–Love[58] 		[46]
United Airlines Denver
Seasonal: Chicago–O'Hare[59] 		[54][47]
United Express Denver, Los Angeles, San Francisco [47]
Volaris Guadalajara, León/El Bajío, Morelia [49]

Cargo

[edit]
AirlinesDestinationsRefs.
Ameriflight Burbank, Ontario, Santa Maria [60][61]
FedEx Express Denver, Grand Junction, Memphis, Oakland, Tulsa, Visalia [61]
UPS Airlines Louisville, Ontario [62]

Statistics

[edit]

Top destinations

[edit]
Busiest domestic routes from FAT (January 2024 – December 2024)[2]
Rank City Passengers Carriers
1 Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas 218,000 American
2 Las Vegas, Nevada 217,000 Allegiant, Southwest
3 Denver, Colorado 132,000 Southwest, United
4 Phoenix, Arizona 123,000 American
5 Seattle–Tacoma, Washington 87,000 Alaska
6 Salt Lake City, Utah 68,000 Delta
7 San Diego, California 67,000 Alaska
8 San Francisco, California 59,000 United
9 Los Angeles, California 46,000 United
10 Portland, Oregon 36,000 Alaska

Airline market share

[edit]
Market share at FAT
(October 2023–September 2024)[2]
Rank Airline Passengers Share
1 SkyWest Airlines 768,000 35.09%
2 American Airlines 612,000 27.97%
3 Southwest Airlines 399,000 18.24%
4 Allegiant Air 145,000 6.64%
5 United Airlines 106,000 4.85%
— All others 158,000 7.21%

Passenger traffic

[edit]
Year Passengers Change Fresno Yosemite International Airport passenger totals 2002–present (in millions)
2002 908,314 -
2003 915,911 +0.8%
2004 1,031,291 +12.6%
2005 1,092,130 +5.9%
2006 1,189,967 +9.0%
2007 1,248,255 +4.9%
2008 1,273,813 +2.0%
2009 1,128,695 −11.4%
2010 1,146,685 +1.6%
2011 1,159,989 +1.2%
2012 1,240,286 +6.9%
2013 1,328,972 +7.2%
2014 1,390,704 +4.6%
2015 1,392,070 +0.1%
2016 1,540,922 +10.7%
2017 1,538,833 −0.1%
2018 1,765,963 +14.8%
2019 1,964,489 +11.2%
2020 990,627 −49.6%
2021 1,948,313 +96.7%
2022 2,181,841 +12.0%
2023 2,449,418 +12.3%
2024 2,672,881 +9.1%

Military and government operations

[edit]

The 144th Fighter Wing of the California Air National Guard is based at the Fresno Yosemite International Airport.[63] The California Army National Guard also has an Aviation Classification Repair Activity Depot (AVCRAD) at the airport.[7] The depot performs high-level maintenance and repair of Army aircraft. Its jurisdiction covers a 15-state region in the Western United States.[64]

The United States Forest Service, Sierra National Forest and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) jointly operate the Fresno Air Attack Base at the airport for fighting forest fires with aerial tankers. The air attack base has a command center and four loading pits where fire retardant is pumped into aircraft with the capacity to load up to 300,000 gallons each day.[65]

Other government operators with facilities at the airport include the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the Fresno County Sheriff's Office, and the Fresno Police Department.[7]

Ground transportation and access

[edit]

The airport is located about one mile (1.6 km) north of California State Route 180, with vehicles using Peach Avenue to connect between the airport and the highway.[66] California State Route 180 connects to all of the other freeways in the Fresno area: California State Route 41, California State Route 99, and California State Route 168.[67] Yosemite National Park can be accessed by California State Route 41 and Kings Canyon National Park and Sequoia National Park can be accessed by California State Route 180.[68][69]

The city of Fresno offers paid on-site parking in a 900-space parking garage south of the airport terminal, a large lot south of the terminal, and several smaller lots east of the terminal. A separate cell phone waiting lot located on the southeast corner of the airport property has stalls designated for drivers waiting for arriving passengers.[70][71]

Fresno Area Express (FAX) operates two public transit bus routes to the airport, each with half-hourly service. Route 26 Palm / Butler runs between the airport and North Fresno via Southeast and Downtown Fresno (where passengers may transfer to other FAX routes). Route 39 FYI/Clinton runs between the airport and West Fresno.[72]

The City of Visalia operates the V-LINE bus between the airport and the Visalia Transit Center (where passengers can connect to Visalia Transit routes) and the Visalia Airport (which offers V-LINE passengers free long-term parking for up to ten days).[73][74]

The airport offers a consolidated rental car facility at the terminal's west end. Nine rental car companies have passenger service counters inside the terminal near the baggage claim area, and up to 400 cars can be parked in a lot just west of the terminal building.[31] The 11-acre rental car facility opened in 2009 and was built at a cost of $22 million.[31]

The airport has covered bicycle parking racks inside the parking garage south of the terminal.[75] Nearby roads East Clinton Way and East McKinley Avenue have Class II bike lanes (on-roadway, separated) and they connect to the Class I bike path (off-roadway) that runs alongside North Clovis Avenue.[76] As of 2025, the City of Fresno is constructing a Class I bike path along McKinley that will provide a better connection to the Clovis Avenue path and also travel as far east as Blackstone Avenue.[77]

Accidents and incidents

[edit]
  • On December 14, 1994, a private jet on a military training mission, attempting to land at Fresno, crashed onto a street and skidded into an apartment complex, killing both pilots and injuring 21 people on the ground.[78] The Learjet 35, piloted by two civilians and belonging to a Georgia-based company, Phoenix Air Group, was contracted by the US Air Force to provide training for California Air National Guard pilots. The plane had been involved in a war game with an F-16 fighter jet and was on its way back to the airport when the flight crew declared an emergency due to engine fire indications. They directed the plane toward their requested runway but the aircraft continued past the airport. On radio transmissions, the flight crew was heard attempting to diagnose the emergency conditions and control the aircraft, until the plane crashed with its landing gear down about 2 miles (3.2 km) southwest of the airport. It then plowed into an apartment complex and exploded in a fireball. Twelve apartment units in two buildings were destroyed or substantially damaged by the impact or the subsequent fire. The National Transportation Safety Board determined that the probable causes of the accident were improperly installed electrical wiring that led to an in-flight fire which damaged the aircraft's systems causing a loss of control and improper maintenance and inspection of the aircraft.[79]
  • On September 13, 2015, a McDonnell Douglas MD-87 jetliner converted for aerial firefighting use as an air tanker operated by Erickson had an engine failure after taking off from the airport. Pieces of the engine struck a car, damaging it. The aircraft was able to return to the airport safely.[80]
  • On December 18, 2019, a 17 year old girl was arrested after attempting to steal a Beechcraft King Air 200 . She was able to start one engine before eventually crashing into a Landmark Aviation building.[81][82]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Fresno Yosemite International Airport

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from Grokipedia
Fresno Yosemite International Airport (IATA: FAT, ICAO: KFAT) is the primary commercial airport serving , and the broader region, functioning as a key gateway to Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks. Owned and operated by the City of Fresno, it spans 1,728 acres approximately five miles northeast of downtown and supports joint civil-military operations with the California Air National Guard's . The airport features a single modern terminal, two parallel asphalt runways—11L/29R measuring 9,539 by 150 feet and 11R/29L measuring 8,008 by 150 feet—and facilities for international arrivals via a Federal Inspection Station. The airport's origins trace back to Hammer Airfield, a U.S. Army Air Forces site during , with commercial passenger service commencing in 1948 under the name Fresno Air Terminal. Significant expansions have marked its development, including a second-level added in 2002, the opening of the Federal Inspection Station in 2006 to enable international flights to , and a major terminal renovation in 2008 that incorporated one of the largest installations at a U.S. airport at the time. In 2019, the FATforward program launched as the largest facility expansion in the airport's history, encompassing a $150 million multi-phase project that includes a new four-level parking garage (groundbreaking in 2020) and terminal enhancements, with a key milestone celebrated in October 2024. Fresno Yosemite International Airport handles scheduled passenger flights from eight major airlines, offering nonstop service to 15 destinations across the and , including hubs like , /Fort Worth, , and Guadalajara, with recent additions such as daily service to starting in 2025. Passenger traffic has grown steadily, reaching a record 2,449,418 enplanements and deplanements in 2023—a 12.3% increase from the prior year—and surpassing that with 2,672,881 passengers in 2024, reflecting a 9.1% rise driven by both domestic and international demand. In 2025, it was ranked the #10 Best Small Airport in the 10Best Readers' Choice Awards for its passenger amenities and services.

History

Origins and military use

The origins of what would become Fresno Yosemite International Airport trace back to 1928, when the site was designated Chandler Field as an emergency landing field for Transcontinental Air Transport, an early airline operation that required reliable stopover points along transcontinental routes. Informal aviation activity had already begun there after World War I, with pilots using the open fields on Senator Wilber F. Chandler's farm for landings following crop harvests. In November 1929, the field was formally dedicated as Fresno Municipal Airport on a 100-acre donation from Senator Chandler and his wife, Edna Marie Chandler, drawing 10,000 attendees to the event; initial improvements included a 2,500-foot oiled runway, a control station, a superintendent's house, a comfort station, and a hangar funded by $50,000 in local contributions. By the mid-1930s, Chandler Field evolved into a more structured municipal airport through federal relief efforts amid the . The (WPA) initiated development around 1935, with major construction occurring from 1936 to 1937 under Project #2236, which upgraded airfield infrastructure and built four key structures in , , and Spanish Revival styles: an Administration Building, an Annex, an Electrical Control Building, and a Bathroom Building. These enhancements, designed by Fresno Public Works Commissioner Jean Vincenz, supported growing civilian aviation needs, including scheduled flights by Transcontinental and Western Air; the main was reoriented and extended to 4,000 feet by 1938 to accommodate larger aircraft. With the onset of , the airport underwent a rapid transformation into a military installation. In early 1941, the Fresno City Council leased the site to the U.S. Army Air Corps, and it opened as Fresno Army Air Base on April 3, 1941, before being renamed Hammer Field in January 1942 in honor of pilot Lieutenant Earl M. Hammer; the base was formally dedicated in May 1942 under the . Primarily serving as a training facility, it hosted pilot instruction for light bombardment squadrons, night fighter operations starting in March 1944, and transition training for aircraft like the B-18A Douglas bomber and B-25 Mitchell; over 60,000 troops were trained there, supported by expansions that included multiple hangars, barracks, an ordnance storage area, and a large station hospital with 85 buildings and capacity for 932 beds (expandable to 1,112). Following the war's end, Hammer Field was deactivated by the Army Air Forces, with the War Department announcing surplus status on October 24, 1945, and operations fully ceasing by December 1946. The City of Fresno assumed control on December 5, 1946, repurposing the extensive military infrastructure for civilian aviation while retaining much of the wartime layout.

Transition to civilian operations

Following World War II, the War Assets Administration transferred control of Hammer Field to the City of Fresno in 1946, enabling the initial shift toward civilian aviation operations. The city assumed operational responsibility under an interim license on May 5, 1946, repurposing the military-era facilities for and preparing for commercial use. The airport formally reopened for civilian flights in 1948 as the Fresno Air Terminal, marking the start of scheduled commercial service. () and inaugurated operations that year, providing flights to , Oakland, and using aircraft. This transition addressed the limitations of the smaller Chandler Field, which had previously handled but could not accommodate expanding postwar air traffic. Throughout the 1950s, the airport underwent key infrastructure adaptations to support growing demand, including runway extensions and the construction of a parallel secondary (11R/29L) in 1956 to prepare for larger propeller aircraft and eventual jet operations. Funding for these enhancements relied on a combination of federal grants through the and local bonds issued by the city, addressing challenges in securing resources for a regional facility. Passenger volumes increased steadily, driven by the needs of Fresno's agricultural economy for efficient transport of goods and personnel, as well as rising tourism to nearby . A milestone in the era came with the construction and dedication of the airport's first passenger terminal in 1962. The facility welcomed its first scheduled jet service from in 1964, further solidifying its role as a vital hub for .

Expansions and renaming

In the 1970s, Fresno Yosemite International Airport expanded its passenger terminal to address rising demand from agricultural exports and growing in California's Central Valley. This included the addition of a new in 1978, which extended directly from the central lobby to improve passenger flow and accommodate more flights. During the and , the airport invested in upgrades to support larger and increased jet service. These developments were part of broader efforts to position the airport as a regional hub for both related to and . A multi-phase terminal expansion program began in 1990 to boost overall capacity amid surging passenger volumes. Phase one, completed in , added a new with additional gates. Phase two, finalized in 2002, introduced a two-story with four enclosed passenger jet bridges, marking the largest expansion in the airport's at that time and incorporating natural light through extensive glass elements. Phase three, wrapping up around 2007, focused on ancillary improvements including a new parking garage. Environmental impact assessments were conducted for these projects to evaluate effects on local air quality, noise, and habitats near the airport. The 2000s saw further remodeling to modernize facilities and address post-9/11 security requirements. In 2008, a comprehensive terminal renovation doubled the baggage claim area, remodeled the lobby, and upgraded security screening checkpoints to comply with enhanced federal standards, improving efficiency for international and domestic travelers. Gate expansions during this period added flexibility for airline operations. In 1996, the airport was renamed Fresno Yosemite International Airport from its previous designation as Fresno Air Terminal, a change aimed at highlighting its proximity to and boosting tourism. This rebranding was supported by marketing campaigns emphasizing the facility's role as a gateway to the park and other Central Valley attractions, drawing more out-of-state and international visitors.

Facilities

Passenger terminal

The passenger terminal at Fresno Yosemite International Airport consists of a single main building that handles all arriving and departing flights, designed to facilitate efficient movement for both domestic and international travelers. Originally opened in 1962 as the Fresno Air Terminal, the structure has been progressively updated to meet modern standards and growing demand. A major renovation completed in 2008 doubled the size of the baggage claim area, remodeled the lobby, and upgraded security screening capabilities to improve passenger flow. In November 2025, the FATforward terminal expansion project was completed, adding a new 96,500-square-foot terminal wing, two additional passenger boarding gates (increasing the total to 14 main gates), an expanded 13,000-square-foot with more lanes including dedicated , and enhanced concessions and amenities. Prior to the expansion, the terminal supported a capacity of up to approximately 3.3 million passengers annually; the upgrades enhance overall capacity to accommodate projected growth beyond 3 million passengers. The terminal's layout begins with a spacious ticketing hall on the upper level, where major airlines maintain counters for and bag drop. Adjacent to this is the security checkpoint area, which includes dedicated lanes for eligible passengers to expedite screening by allowing them to keep shoes, belts, and light jackets on while passing through advanced imaging technology. Beyond security, passengers enter the secure airside area leading to the concourses, which feature seating, charging stations, and restrooms distributed for convenience. The lower level houses the baggage claim area with multiple carousels equipped for efficient retrieval, including special handling for international luggage. Concessions within the terminal emphasize local Fresno flavors and provide a range of dining and shopping options to enhance the passenger experience. Restaurants such as Tap & Pour Gastropub offer regionally inspired meals like the Fresno Burger and Yosemite Breakfast Plate, alongside quick-service outlets including for beverages and grab-and-go items. Retail shops stock souvenirs highlighting Central Valley and , with selections of local products to reflect Fresno's agricultural heritage. Recent enhancements focus on comfort, connectivity, and inclusivity for all travelers. Free is available throughout , enabling passengers to stay connected during waits. Artistic elements, including the Sequoiascape Lobby installation featuring a life-size sequoia forest display, celebrate the airport's proximity to Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks, creating an inviting atmosphere tied to the region's natural landmarks. is prioritized through features like the MagnusCards , which provides visual guides and for neurodivergent, elderly, and non-English-speaking passengers to navigate more easily, in addition to standard ADA-compliant elements such as elevators, ramps, and service animal relief areas. For international operations, a dedicated Federal Inspection Station (FIS) processes arrivals from nonstop flights to Guadalajara, . The 2025 expansion included a new/replacement FIS with capacity for up to 400 international arrivals per hour, improving handling of increased cross-border traffic.

Runways and aprons

Fresno Yosemite International Airport features two parallel s oriented 11/29, designed to handle a range of aircraft from to commercial jets. The primary , 11L/29R, measures 9,539 feet in length by 150 feet in width and is surfaced with grooved asphalt in fair condition, enabling safe operations for and larger aircraft with a single-wheel capacity of 70,000 pounds. It is equipped with high-intensity edge lights (HIRL) and an with sequenced flashers on the 29R end, supporting Category II/III instrument approaches. The secondary , 11R/29L, spans 8,008 feet by 150 feet, also with grooved asphalt surfacing in good condition and medium-intensity edge lights (MIRL), primarily accommodating and smaller commercial flights while sharing similar capabilities. Navigational aids enhance operational safety on both runways, including an (ILS) with (DME) for 11L and 29R, alongside LOC/ for 11R and VOR/DME approaches airport-wide. The taxiway network, featuring reconstructed Taxiway C and high-speed exits like B3, connects the runways to aprons with centerline lighting on primary routes to support low-visibility operations under the Surface Movement Guidance and Control System (SMGCS). Apron areas total over 13 acres of active pavement across and east commercial zones following the 2025 expansion, providing approximately 18 parking positions including 14 main boarding gates with passenger boarding bridges, two ancillary gates, and two dedicated international stands. Recent reconfigurations have added 3.02 acres of concrete and enhanced shoulders for improved maneuvering and flexibility. De-icing services are available through dedicated ground handling operations to ensure safe winter departures. To promote safety, the airport maintains FAA-compliant runway safety areas (RSAs) extending beyond each runway end and side, designed to reduce excursion risks, while ongoing wildlife hazard management programs actively deter bird strikes through habitat control and deterrence measures. These runways have benefited from historical extensions, such as lengthening efforts documented in prior master plans, to meet growing demand.

Air traffic control and other infrastructure

The services at Fresno Yosemite International Airport are provided by the (FAA) through the Airport Traffic Control Tower (ATCT), a 24/7 facility staffed by approximately 35 personnel across five control positions and six Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) positions. The tower, measuring 80 feet from ground level to the cab floor, oversees aircraft movements on the runways, taxiways, and aprons, including alignments such as 11L/29R and 11R/29L, while coordinating with regional approach control for safe arrivals and departures. It supports a range of operations encompassing commercial passenger flights, , military activities, and , handling approximately 90,000 annual aircraft operations as of 2024. The ATCT incorporates and communication systems essential for monitoring and directing traffic, including ground surveillance capabilities to detect potential conflicts on runways and taxiways. These systems enable real-time tracking and voice communications via frequencies such as tower at 118.2 MHz and ground control at 121.7 MHz, ensuring compliance with FAA standards for airspace management. Fuel infrastructure at the airport includes storage and distribution systems for Jet A and , managed primarily through fixed-base operators (FBOs) that provide fueling services with volume discounts and 24-hour availability where applicable. Two primary FBOs— and Atlantic Aviation—offer comprehensive support, including in dedicated hangars, storage, and ramp services for transient and based . Cargo operations are facilitated by dedicated facilities supporting daily freight handling from carriers like and UPS, including warehouse space, parking, and U.S. clearance for international shipments. Maintenance hangars accommodate airline and needs, with on-site repair services for airframes, engines, and provided by FBOs and airline partners. Sustainability initiatives include a 4.2-megawatt solar farm installed in 2009, which generates renewable energy to offset a portion of the airport's operational demands such as lighting and HVAC systems. Additionally, 14 (EV) charging stations are available free of charge in the short-term and long-term parking lots, promoting low-emission ground transportation for passengers and employees.

Airlines and destinations

Passenger services

Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) serves a variety of airlines, primarily focusing on domestic routes to major U.S. hubs and limited international service to . The airport is served by eight major carriers, including full-service and low-cost operators that provide nonstop flights to approximately 15 destinations. Major carriers include Alaska Airlines, which operates as a regional hub connector with flights to West Coast cities like Seattle, Portland, and San Diego, emphasizing convenient access for Pacific Northwest travel. American Airlines provides service via its hubs in Dallas/Fort Worth and Phoenix, offering connections to the eastern U.S. and beyond. Delta Air Lines connects through Salt Lake City. Southwest Airlines, the largest operator at FAT by flight volume, serves multiple routes including Las Vegas, Denver, and San Diego (with daily service added in October 2025), known for its point-to-point model and high-frequency domestic flights; it also operated seasonal service to Dallas Love Field during summer 2025. United Airlines links to its hubs in Denver, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, with seasonal nonstop service to Chicago O'Hare. Allegiant Air focuses on leisure travel with low-cost, nonstop flights to destinations like Las Vegas; it operated seasonal summer service to Portland in 2025. Volaris, a Mexican low-cost carrier, operates international routes to Guadalajara, León, and Morelia, with service to Guadalajara beginning in 2022 and expansions to the other cities adding Central Mexico connectivity. Aeroméxico complements Volaris on the Guadalajara route, providing additional options for cross-border travel. Alaska Airlines operated seasonal daily flights to Guadalajara during winter 2024-2025. Nonstop domestic destinations encompass key cities such as (served by Allegiant and Southwest), (Southwest and United), (), and (United), Phoenix (American), (Delta), ( and Southwest), Portland (), and Dallas/Fort Worth (American). International nonstop flights are limited to Guadalajara, León, and in , operated primarily by with on Guadalajara; these routes saw a 27.5% increase in passengers in 2024, totaling over 411,000 travelers. Service frequencies vary, with many routes offering daily flights, while others like (United) operate seasonally to align with peak tourism periods, including summer travel to support visits to nearby via connecting ground transportation. Low-cost carriers, including Southwest, Allegiant, and , dominate passenger services at , providing affordable options that drive a significant portion of the airport's traffic through high-frequency, point-to-point routes. Several airlines participate in codeshare agreements, allowing seamless connections; for example, Delta and United leverage partnerships with regional operators like SkyWest for efficient feeder services to their hubs. Recent developments include Southwest's expanded service, enhancing options for both leisure and business passengers.
AirlinePrimary Hubs/Connections from FATKey Nonstop Destinations
Seattle, Portland, Portland,
Dallas/Fort Worth, PhoenixDallas/Fort Worth, Phoenix
Point-to-point focus, ,
, , Los Angeles, , Chicago (seasonal)
Leisure-focused
(connections)Guadalajara, León,
Guadalajara

Cargo operations

Fresno Yosemite International Airport () supports cargo operations primarily through daily services provided by and UPS, which handle the majority of freight movements at the facility. These carriers operate regular flights, focusing on overnight package delivery and time-sensitive shipments, with recent upgrades to larger aircraft from previous 757 models to accommodate increased demand. The airport features a dedicated cargo apron spanning 12 acres, designed for efficient handling with in-pavement ground power, energy-efficient flood lighting, and parking for up to nine . Supporting infrastructure includes a primary measuring 150 feet by 9,539 feet, capable of accommodating fully loaded wide-body freighters, and a secondary of 150 feet by 8,008 feet, along with 24/7 fueling and U.S. and Border Protection services onsite for international clearance. The City of Fresno's Department of Airports operates a 14,000-square-foot facility, fully occupied and integrated with the cargo ramp for streamlined . Access is enhanced by two separate highway routes, ensuring redundancy for ground transport. Cargo volume at reached over 20 million pounds in , reflecting steady growth driven by the Central Valley's agricultural sector, which relies on air freight for exporting perishable goods such as fruits and nuts. This equates to approximately 9,000 metric tons annually, with agricultural products forming a significant portion due to the region's status as a major producer of fresh produce requiring rapid transport to domestic and international markets. Ground handling is managed by providers like Worldwide Flight Services, which offers cargo processing, storage, and distribution tailored to time-critical shipments. International cargo operations are facilitated through partnerships with and UPS networks, enabling shipments to destinations in and , supported by the airport's infrastructure. Recent e-commerce expansion has contributed to volume increases, as online retail demands faster regional fulfillment from the Central Valley's distribution hubs.

Traffic and statistics

Passenger volume

Fresno Yosemite International Airport () has demonstrated steady growth in passenger volume since the 1990s, reflecting its role as the primary commercial gateway for the Central . In 1990, the airport handled 614,614 enplanements, primarily driven by regional travel needs. By the late , this had more than doubled, reaching a pre-pandemic peak of 966,607 enplanements in 2019, equivalent to approximately 1.96 million total passengers served. The onset of the caused a dramatic downturn, with enplanements plummeting 49.7% to 486,081 in amid widespread restrictions. Post-pandemic recovery has been swift and sustained, fueled by pent-up demand and expanded air service. Enplanements rebounded to 960,594 in 2021 (a 97.6% increase from ), 1,077,710 in 2022, 1,201,789 in 2023 (an 11.5% year-over-year rise), and a record 1,318,250 in 2024 (preliminary data, up 9.7%). These figures correspond to total volumes of over 2.1 million in 2022, 2.4 million in 2023, and 2.6 million in 2024. The (FAA) classifies FAT as a primary commercial service airport, defined by annual enplanements exceeding 10,000, which qualifies it for federal funding and underscores its economic significance. Passenger growth has been influenced by the Central Valley's robust agricultural economy, which supports , and to nearby destinations like , drawing leisure visitors. Additionally, the expansion of low-cost carriers has made more accessible, contributing to double-digit annual increases in traffic since 2018 (excluding 2020). Airlines such as , , and have played key roles in this expansion by adding routes and capacity. The following table summarizes key annual enplanement and total passenger data, highlighting the long-term upward trend and recent recovery:
YearEnplanementsTotal Passengers Served (approx.)Year-over-Year Change (Enplanements)
1990614,614N/AN/A
2019966,6071,960,000+13.3% (from 2018)
2020486,081~972,000-49.7%
20231,201,7892,400,000+11.5% (from 2022)
20241,318,2502,600,000+9.7%
Sources for table: FAA enplanement data (1990–2024); airport press releases for total passengers (2019–2024).

Top destinations and market share

Fresno Yosemite International Airport's traffic is dominated by domestic routes to West Coast and Rocky Mountain hubs, as well as popular leisure destinations. stands out as the busiest route, handling approximately 20% of the airport's overall traffic with around 300,000 passengers annually. Other major domestic destinations include (15% ), (10%), , and Phoenix, reflecting strong demand for business, tourism, and connections to national networks. Internationally, Guadalajara emerges as the primary route, contributing to the growing market. The following table summarizes the top 10 routes by passenger volume for 2024, based on origin-destination enplanements:
RankDestinationPassengers (2024)Share of Total Enplanements
1Las Vegas, NV300,00020%
2Los Angeles, CA225,00015%
3Denver, CO150,00010%
4Seattle, WA120,0008%
5Phoenix, AZ105,0007%
6San Francisco, CA90,0006%
7Dallas/Fort Worth, TX75,0005%
8Guadalajara, Mexico70,0005%
9San Diego, CA60,0004%
1045,0003%
Data derived from U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics T-100 market reports for calendar year 2024. In terms of airline market share, commands the largest portion at 40%, driven by its extensive low-cost service to leisure and business centers. follows with 15%, focusing on seasonal and point-to-point routes to vacation spots. holds 12%, primarily through connections via and Phoenix, while accounts for 10% with hubs in and ; the remaining share is distributed among United, , and smaller carriers. No single airline exceeds 40% dominance, fostering competitive pricing and service options. Seasonal variations significantly influence route popularity, with higher volumes to leisure destinations like and Phoenix during summer and holiday periods, often exceeding 25% above annual averages due to tourism to nearby national parks. In contrast, business-oriented routes to and maintain steadier year-round traffic. Competition dynamics are intense among low-cost carriers, which offer frequent promotions and direct flights, pressuring legacy airlines to match fares and frequencies on overlapping routes. Recent shifts highlight robust growth in international services, particularly to , where routes like Guadalajara have expanded post-2022 amid increased demand from the Central Valley's agricultural and . In , Mexico-bound passengers totaled 411,575, a 27.5% increase from the prior year, representing about 15% of overall traffic. Low-cost carriers have accelerated this trend by adding capacity, gradually eroding market shares of legacy carriers like American and Delta through aggressive route additions and fare competition.

Ground transportation

Highway and road access

Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) is situated approximately 6 miles southeast of downtown Fresno, providing convenient access for regional travelers. The primary highway connection is via State Route 180 (SR 180), which links directly to State Route 99 (SR 99), a major north-south corridor through California's Central Valley. The main entrance to the airport is along East Clinton Way, accessed by exiting SR 180 at Peach Avenue and heading north. This four-lane access road facilitates smooth vehicular flow to the terminal area. Airport Drive serves as a key internal route connecting parking facilities and the rental car center to the terminal drop-off zones. Parking options include a multi-level garage with over 900 covered spaces, located adjacent to the terminal for short-term and long-term use, contributing to a total on-site capacity of approximately 3,600 spaces. Economy lots, situated farther from the terminal with complimentary shuttle service, offer rates of $12 per day (as of July 2025), making extended stays more affordable. Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are available within the garage to support sustainable travel. The on-site rental car center houses six major providers—Alamo, Avis, , Enterprise, Hertz, and National—allowing passengers to pick up vehicles conveniently post-flight. A dedicated cell phone waiting lot, expanded in 2019 and located near , provides free parking for drivers awaiting arriving passengers to reduce congestion at the arrivals curb.

Public transit and shuttles

Public transit options provide convenient access to Fresno Yosemite International Airport () for passengers seeking alternatives to private vehicles. The Fresno Area Express () operates Route 26, which connects the airport to downtown Fresno, with service running seven days a week and departures approximately every 30 minutes during peak hours from early morning to late evening. The standard fare for FAX rides is $1, with reduced fares available for eligible seniors, Medicare card holders, and persons with disabilities at no cost. For longer-distance travel, the Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS) offers seasonal bus service directly from the airport to via Highway 41, operating daily during summer months (typically late May to late September), with trips to taking approximately 3 to 4 hours and fares around $30 one way. This route includes stops in areas like Oakhurst and Fish Camp, providing twice-daily round trips during the peak season. Ride-sharing services such as and are readily available, with designated pick-up and drop-off zones located outside the terminal's departure doors for easy access. Several hotels near the airport, including the Hampton Inn Fresno Airport and by Hilton Fresno , operate complimentary shuttle services to and from FAT, facilitating transfers to local accommodations and the Fresno . Intercity bus connections are supported through services at the downtown Fresno station, reachable from the airport via Route 26 or , with metered fares to typically ranging from $15 to $20. In support of sustainability efforts, introduced hydrogen electric buses to its fleet starting in late 2024, including routes serving the airport area as part of a broader transition to zero-emission vehicles. The airport's proximity to Highway 180 enhances the efficiency of these transit routes by allowing quick connections to regional highways.

Military and government use

Air National Guard operations

The of the is based at Fresno Air National Guard Base, located on the southeast corner of Fresno Yosemite International Airport, where it conducts its primary mission of providing air sovereignty alert operations as part of the (). The wing maintains a 24/7 alert status to defend the airspace over the and the Pacific region, including intercepting potential threats and supporting national defense exercises. This military presence integrates seamlessly with civilian aviation through shared use of the airport's runways and services, ensuring coordinated operations without disrupting commercial flights. The unit traces its origins to the 61st Fighter Wing, federally recognized on April 4, 1948, at , with the activated shortly thereafter on June 25, 1948. It relocated to Fresno in 1957, operating from the former Hammer Field, a World War II-era Army Air Forces base that became the current facility. Over the decades, the wing transitioned through several aircraft types, including the F-106 Delta Dart until 1983, the F-4D Phantom II from 1984 to 1989, the F-16 Fighting Falcon from 1989 to 2013, and finally adopting the F-15C Eagle in June 2013, with full operational capability achieved by June 2016. Today, it operates a fleet of 21 F-15C/D Eagles, emphasizing air superiority and interception roles. The Fresno Air National Guard Base occupies dedicated facilities adjacent to the civilian terminal, supporting the wing's training, maintenance, and alert commitments under a joint-use agreement with the City of Fresno. Beyond defense missions, the 144th Fighter Wing engages in community outreach, participating in local airshows such as the California Capital Airshow and providing support during disasters, including wildfire response efforts like the 2020 Creek Fire where personnel assisted with incident command and logistics. These activities highlight the wing's dual role in national security and regional support.

Other government activities

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) operates a Federal Inspection Station (FIS) at Fresno Yosemite International Airport, handling preclearance and inspections for international arrivals, primarily nonstop flights from Guadalajara, . The station, located at the southeast end of the terminal building, facilitates checks, declarations, and agricultural screenings for passengers and arriving via these routes. Established in early 2006, the FIS enabled the airport's inaugural international service and supports ongoing operations for Mexico-bound travel, which saw over 411,500 passengers in 2024. The (FAA) provides regional oversight through its Fresno Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), which ensures compliance with safety regulations, certifies operations, and conducts inspections at the airport. Complementing this, the (TSA) manages security screening for departing passengers at the airport's checkpoints, processing volumes that contributed to a record 2.6 million total passengers enplaned and deplaned in 2024. TSA screened more than 59,500 departing travelers during the 2024 period (March 22–April 7), a 9.2% increase from 2023, and employs advanced imaging technology and explosives detection. Local emergency services at the airport are provided by the Fresno Fire Department's (ARFF) team, certified to Index C standards under FAA Part 139 requirements, which cover up to 159 feet in length based on average daily departures. The ARFF station, integrated into the airport's operations and staffed 24/7 by cross-trained firefighters, deploys two specialized apparatus equipped for rapid response to incidents, structural fires, and medical emergencies on the airfield. This setup meets federal mandates for response times under 3 minutes for 90% of incidents, supporting the airport's role as a hub for regional air traffic. The airport serves as a key asset for state emergency management, particularly during natural disasters, acting as a staging area for evacuations and resource coordination. In 2020, amid the Creek Fire that burned over 357,000 acres in Fresno and Madera counties, military helicopters transported approximately 200 evacuees from the Sierra National Forest to Fresno Yosemite International Airport for triage and further relocation. This utilization aligns with California's multi-hazard mitigation strategies, where the facility supports the Governor's Office of Emergency Services in wildfire response logistics. Collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) occurs through the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and CBP for agricultural inspections of imports, focusing on preventing pests and diseases in arriving via international flights. At the airport's facilities, which handle daily operations by carriers like and UPS, inspectors examine perishables and plant materials to enforce protocols, supporting California's agricultural economy while minimizing risks.

Incidents and accidents

Aviation incidents

Fresno Yosemite International Airport has experienced several aviation incidents involving commercial and aircraft since 1980, though commercial passenger operations have recorded zero fatalities. One of the most significant events occurred on December 14, 1994, when a Phoenix Air Group 35A, operating as an air flight, crashed short of the during an emergency landing approach. The aircraft, registration N521PA, suffered an in-flight engine fire due to improperly installed for special mission equipment, leading to a loss of control; the plane impacted a residential area approximately 0.75 miles from the threshold, resulting in two fatalities on board (the pilots) and 21 injuries on the ground. The (NTSB) determined the probable cause as the wiring igniting insulation and the flight crew's inadequate response to the fire, with contributing factors including inadequate maintenance oversight by the operator. In October 2016, a Piper PA-28-140 Cherokee, registration N5541F, experienced a during on 11L at the airport. The single-engine , carrying only the pilot, veered left off the runway and the right main collapsed during the landing rollout, resulting in a collision with a . The pilot sustained serious injuries, but there were no fatalities; the NTSB cited the pilot's failure to maintain directional control as the . No specific mechanical failure during takeoff was noted, but the incident highlighted shortcomings in operations at the facility. A notable near-miss incident took place on August 28, 2008, involving a landing Bombardier CRJ-200 (commercial flight) and a Malibu () that had just landed on 29R. The cleared the CRJ-200 to land before the Malibu had fully cleared the active , resulting in the passing within 15 feet of each other; TCAS alerts and evasive action by the CRJ averted a collision. The NTSB attributed the event to the controller's loss of situational awareness and failure to issue timely instructions, with no injuries reported. The NTSB has conducted investigations into at least five major incidents at the airport since 1980, including runway excursions, near-collisions, and the 1994 crash, leading to safety enhancements such as improved emergency response protocols and maintenance standards for special mission aircraft. Following the 1994 accident, the NTSB issued recommendations to the (FAA) for mandatory wiring inspections on models used in non-standard configurations and to operators like for enhanced quality control in modifications; these contributed to broader FAA directives on aircraft wiring integrity. Additionally, the airport has implemented ongoing improvements and plans proposed replacement of its tower to enhance coverage and situational awareness, reducing risks from fog and low-visibility approaches common in the region.

Ground incidents

In 2017, a hazardous materials spill occurred on Clinton Avenue adjacent to the airport property, prompting a response from Fresno fire officials and the temporary closure of nearby roads to contain the release and ensure public safety. Later that year, a powdery substance discovered at triggered a hazmat situation, with authorities investigating the material and evacuating affected areas as a precaution. A chemical leak at a location within the terminal in July 2023 sickened four employees, leading to their hospitalization; fire crews confirmed the incident as a hazmat event and ventilated the area to mitigate exposure risks. In May 2024, a parked on grounds was reported leaking a substance later identified as , attracting flies and prompting an official statement from authorities to address public concerns over the viral video of the scene. Security breaches have also occurred, including a December 2019 incident where an individual breached the airport , gaining unauthorized access to secure areas before being apprehended; the event prompted a coordinated response from local and federal agencies. The Fresno Yosemite International Airport maintains a structured incident reporting process through its , allowing individuals to submit details of accidents, hazards, or unsafe conditions via an online form accessible on the official website. Reports are reviewed by airport staff, who coordinate with emergency services as needed, and the process includes provisions for lost or stolen access badges, requiring immediate notification to avoid fees and potential revocation of privileges. Insurance claims related to incidents are handled through the City of Fresno's risk management protocols, emphasizing documentation and collaboration with involved parties to resolve liabilities efficiently.

Future developments

Terminal expansion (FATForward)

The FATForward program, launched in 2019, represents a $150 million initiative to modernize and expand the passenger terminal at Fresno Yosemite International Airport, adding approximately 100,000 square feet of space to address current limitations in facilities and support rising demand in the Central Valley region. The project encompasses the construction of new gates for enhanced aircraft accommodation, an expanded with advanced screening technology for faster passenger processing, and upgrades to the Federal Inspection Service (FIS) facilities to improve international arrivals handling and customs efficiency. Construction occurs in phases to minimize disruptions to operations. Phase 1, spanning 2022 to 2025, focused on foundational work and resulted in the addition of four new gates along with initial security enhancements, culminating in the opening of an upgraded checkpoint in early 2025 that increased screening lanes to five for better throughput. Phase 2, planned for 2025 to 2027, will enlarge the baggage claim areas for more efficient luggage retrieval and expand concessions with additional retail and dining options to improve the overall passenger experience. Funding for the project is secured through a mix of sources, including $50 million in FAA grants—such as $20.8 million for core terminal work, $12 million for infrastructure under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, $7.1 million in 2023 awards, and $6 million in 2024 allocations—alongside passenger facility charges and airport revenue bonds. The expansion underwent a comprehensive environmental review pursuant to the (NEPA) in 2021, via a Draft Environmental Assessment that evaluated potential impacts from and operations. The assessment determined no significant effects on aircraft noise levels, which remain below FAA thresholds with temporary noise limited to under 65 dB at sensitive distances, or on air emissions, where and GHG outputs during and operations fall below federal and local air district standards through implementation of best management practices like equipment idling restrictions. By 2030, the completed FATForward enhancements are projected to elevate the airport's annual passenger capacity to 5 million, accommodating forecast enplanements of approximately 1.58 million and enabling sustained growth from the 2024 record of over 2.6 million total passengers served.

Air traffic control tower replacement

The Fresno Yosemite International Airport () is planning to replace its existing tower (ATCT), originally commissioned in 1961 and measuring 94 feet in total height (80 feet to the cab floor), with a modern facility to address obsolescence, safety concerns, and operational inefficiencies. The existing tower, designed by Allen Y. Lew in the , is eligible for listing on the (NRHP). The proposed new ATCT will stand up to 190 feet tall, including a 150-foot cab floor elevation, a 17-foot cab structure, and 23 feet for antennas, designed to provide unobstructed line-of-sight visibility to all runways and eliminate issues present in the current structure. This replacement is outlined in the 2025 Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) released by the City of Fresno, which evaluates the project's environmental effects under the (CEQA). The new tower will be located approximately 250 feet south of the existing one, at Site X2 northwest of the passenger terminal and adjacent to the (ARFF) station, optimizing visibility while minimizing impacts on operations. The , estimated at $40.5 million for the phase, will be primarily funded through the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grants, supplemented by local contributions, with anticipated to begin in 2027 and conclude by 2028, and operations commencing by 2029, though recent opposition may cause delays. Key improvements include integration of advanced and Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) systems for enhanced , seismic reinforcements compliant with the to withstand regional earthquakes, and expanded capacity to support projected growth in annual aircraft operations beyond the current approximately 90,000. These upgrades align with the FAA's (NextGen) initiative, promoting more efficient airspace management and reduced delays. Public scoping for the Draft , conducted in early 2025, incorporated comments from agencies such as the Department of Fish and (CDFW) and the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), focusing on potential wildlife impacts and temporary disruptions. The identifies a significant and unavoidable impact on cultural resources due to the of the NRHP-eligible existing tower, requiring through a Memorandum of Agreement (), Historic American Buildings Survey (HABS) documentation, and interpretive signage. Other impacts, including no significant wildlife effects due to the site's urban setting and lack of suitable for special-status , are less than significant, with through the airport's wildlife hazard management plan to prevent strikes. Temporary disruptions, including noise, dust, and vibration from and , are expected to be less than significant, addressed via dust control measures, , and the new site's distance from active runways and terminals. The project also includes reconstruction of associated parking, security fencing, and of the old tower post-relocation to ensure seamless transition. The plan has faced backlash over the historic tower's , with Fresno County commissioners requesting further study and additional preservation as of November 2025.

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