A record 10.5 million passengers flew from Luton airport in 2014, a rise of 8.1% on the previous year.
The increase came as 15 new destinations were introduced, with a further 10 new routes confirmed for this year. The first is an Air Nostrum twice weekly service to Vigo in Spain from March 30 .
The airport plans a £100 million transformation to increase annual capacity from 12 million to 18 million passengers by 2026.
Airport chief executive Nick Barton said: “2014 was a milestone year for the airport. Record passenger numbers and the launch of a bold new identity to mark the start of the £100 million transformation are all great platforms from which to start 2015.
“Increasing numbers of air passengers chose to use Luton airport due to the ease of access from London and the surrounding regions and the great value air services on offer.
“The transformation of the airport will continue to attract new airlines, new routes and more passengers, ensuring Luton airport becomes a leading airport for London, Luton and the surrounding regions.”