Salina Regional Airport Sees Passenger Growth as Holiday Travel Nears

Salina, KS — As Thanksgiving travel surges nationwide, the Salina Regional Airport is recording substantial growth in passenger numbers, driven by competitive fares, reliable service, and increasing regional popularity. In October 2024, SkyWest Airlines enplaned 2,056 passengers in Salina, a 75% increase from October 2023. Total passenger traffic for the month reached 4,160, marking a 79% year-over-year rise. Year-to-date enplanements now stand 19% ahead of 2023 figures. “Salina Regional Airport has consistently outperformed expectations,” said Kasey Windhorst, Business and Communications Manager at the Salina Airport Authority. “Our October numbers are the highest since SkyWest began service here, reflecting the strong demand from local and regional travelers.”

Advanced booking data for Thanksgiving shows robust demand, with flights nearing capacity. Outbound load factors for October were up 28% year-over-year, propelled by the success of the Denver route, which saw a 219% increase in enplanements over October 2023. “Holiday travelers are recognizing the advantages of booking with Salina,” Windhorst noted. “We continue to see strong interest in routes connecting to major hubs like Denver and Chicago.”

Salina Regional Airport has positioned itself as a cost-effective and convenient option compared to larger regional airports in Wichita, Kansas City, and Manhattan. Round-trip fares are frequently lower than those at bigger hubs, making Salina an attractive alternative. The airport’s operational performance adds to its appeal. In October, SkyWest recorded zero flight cancellations and an 89% on-time arrival rate, outperforming many larger facilities. Free parking for both short- and long-term travelers further enhances the airport’s value proposition.

Since 2023, Salina Regional Airport has experienced steady growth, reflecting broader trends in regional air travel recovery. Executive Director Pieter Miller attributes the success to strategic pricing, operational efficiency, and Salina’s prime location at the intersection of major Midwest travel routes. “Salina shares many top markets with Wichita and Kansas City, but our competitive fares and reliable service set us apart,” Miller said. “We’ve worked hard to ensure travelers have an excellent experience, and the numbers reflect that.”

With flights filling quickly, travelers are encouraged to book early to secure seats for Thanksgiving travel. “Holiday travel is always a busy time, and demand this year has been especially high,” Windhorst said. Salina Regional Airport offers a stress-free alternative to larger, more congested airports, making it an appealing choice for holiday travelers seeking affordability and reliability.

As the airport enters its busiest season, the future looks bright. With its emphasis on competitive pricing and operational excellence, Salina Regional Airport is poised to solidify its reputation as a vital hub for regional travel.

For more information on flights, routes, and fares, visit the Salina Regional Airport’s website at salinaairport.com.