For the 17th month in a row, the number of people visiting the Las Vegas valley has dropped. McCarran International Airport says their passenger count has decreased by more than a quarter of a million people for the month of July.
For some, fewer people in the airport means getting in and out a little faster. But for others who depend on the high number of people in Las Vegas, it could mean their livelihood.
"Everybody is so scared with the economy that they are just watching their money and don't want to travel," said tourist Sandra Martinez.
According to newly released numbers, tourist number have dropped about 9-percent for the month of July compared to this time last year.
Mason Craddock has driven a taxi in Las Vegas for more than 20 years and he frequents the airport. "The lines use to be really long, but not anymore. The lines have diminished," he said.
But with less of a crowd, he's not just seeing the difference he's also feeling it with less money he takes home. "I use to play the airport all the time, but I've gotten to the point where I turn away from the airport," he said.
Less money in a bad economy is something Craddock blames for the slow down in passenger count at the airport. People are left planning trips farther in advance and continue pinching pennies.
"People are cutting back because there are basic necessities you have to pay for," said tourist Sasha Lala.
