Porter Airlines posted record passenger numbers for 2011, including a December load factor of 63.9 per cent, 1.5 points higher than the previous year. Over 2.1 million passengers travelled with Porter during the year, which is another record compared to 1.56 million in 2010.

December results show 117.6 million Available Seat Miles (ASMs) and 75.2 million Revenue Passenger Miles (RPMs).  ASMs increased 26.7 per cent from 92.8 million and RPMs grew 29.9 per cent compared to 57.9 million last year.

“Porter is one of the fastest growing airlines in North America,” said Robert Deluce, president and CEO of Porter Airlines. “The big highlight of 2011 was our 5th birthday celebrated on October 23, and our 5 millionth passenger also flew with us that same week.”

Overall, 2011 was another year of growth for the airline. New destinations initiated with Windsor and Sault Ste. Marie in Ontario, and Burlington, Vt. Flights were also added to numerous existing markets from Thunder Bay, Ont., to Moncton, N.B. Six new Bombardier Q400 aircraft were delivered during the year.

“We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished as a team and are ready to make our mark in 2012,” added Deluce.

The year gets off to a quick start with new service to Timmins, Ont., commencing Jan. 16. A sixth U.S. market is also anticipated by spring.