Christina Estes/KJZZ

A closed security checkpoint at Sky Harbor's Terminal 4 on Sept. 4, 2020.

Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport reported its passenger traffic in September improved about 7% from the month prior. However, it is still down over 50% compared to last year. 

The airport’s public information officer Greg Roybal, says this small rebound may be slightly ahead of the curve nationally.

“We have made strides and I think we’re finding that nationally airports, you know, nationwide, their numbers are down 60%. So we are maybe just a little bit ahead of that curve," Roybal said.

Cargo shipments continue to make up for lower passenger traffic; they’re up almost 17%. As the slow rebound continues, more of Sky Harbor’s retail and other businesses are beginning to reopen as well.