Ontario International Airport Wins Top North American Honor for Social Media Campaigns

Photo – Ontario International Airport took top honors for Social Media Campaigns among all airports in North America during Airports Council International-North America’s (ACI-NA) 2025 Marketing and Communications Awards Ceremony in Kansas City, Missouri.

Southern California’s Ontario International Airport (ONT) is again earning national acclaim for excellence in marketing and communications, taking top honors for Social Media Campaigns among all airports in North America during Airports Council International-North America’s (ACI-NA) 2025 Marketing and Communications Awards in Kansas City, Missouri.

ONT’s popular Open Mic series – a spirited, traveler-centered social media feature showcasing impromptu performances and memorable airport moments – captured the continent-wide award in a category that is not divided by airport size. ONT bested major-hub airports from across the United States and Canada, underscoring the airport’s growing reputation as one of the industry’s most creative and effective storytellers.

The Open Mic concept was developed and led by Social Media Specialist Sabine West, with production support from Creative Producer Christopher Min  and members of the airport’s Communications and Marketing team. The series can be seen on ONT’s Instagram channel, @flyONT.

“We take a lot of pride in proving that an airport of our scale today and the one we’re growing into can lead the nation in creativity, innovation, and authenticity,” said Atif Elkadi, CEO of the Ontario International Airport Authority. “Our Open Mic series captures the energy of our travelers and celebrates the unique sense of place that makes ONT Southern California’s airport of choice. I’m incredibly proud of Sabine, Christopher, and our entire Communications and Marketing team for earning the highest recognition in North America.”

In addition to its social media victory, ONT was named a finalist in two additional ACI-NA categories:

  • Radio Advertising – for the airport’s Not So Fast campaign, which highlights the convenience and time savings of flying from ONT.
  • Overall Public Relations Program (Medium Airports) – for ONT’s So Cal. So Easy. community engagement initiative, which brings the ONT experience directly to neighborhoods and regional events.

ACI-NA reported a record-breaking field of more than 400 entries across all award categories, making this year’s recognition among the most competitive in the program’s history.

“These honors affirm that our team’s work is not only resonating with travelers but also setting the industry standard,” said Eren Cello, Senior Vice President of Communications and Marketing. “We’re committed to elevating the ONT brand in ways that are meaningful, memorable, and – above all – true to who we are.”