Passenger Traffic Continues to Grow at ROA
The Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport continues to see 2019 traffic increase with October traffic up 7.8 percent on a year over year basis. October 2019 saw 69,517 passengers fly via ROA compared to 64,439 in October of 2018 an increase of 5,078 passengers. Year to date passenger traffic is up 8.6 percent versus 2018 with 594,910 passengers served this year compared to 547,630 in 2018.
Strong community support, additional capacity, fare moderation and improved airline operational reliability have all played roles in the continuation of sustained passenger growth, which began in September of 2016 and has now reached 25 consecutive months. October 2019’s increase of 5,078 passengers versus October 2018 equates to 163 more passengers flying ROA each day. Year to date 2019 traffic is up an average of 155 passengers a day versus 2018. At this pace, the airport is on track to have its busiest year since 2000 and serve over 700,000 passengers, an increase of over 100,000 compared to 2017.
“We are pleased to see this positive trend continue through 2019, especially given our strong traffic numbers in 2016, 2017 and 2018,” stated Timothy T. Bradshaw, A.A.E., executive director of the Roanoke Regional Airport Commission. “Passenger demand is a critical factor when speaking with airlines regarding improving and increasing air service to our region. Our carriers have added capacity at ROA and our customers have utilized it, which has led to carriers adding more capacity and hopefully new destinations. Robust air service is a critical component for economic growth in the region. Using our existing air service is the only way we will get more air service. We appreciate the support of our community choosing to fly ROA and not driving out of market to fly.”
The Commission continually works with the airlines to improve reliability, reduce airfare and upgrade equipment serving the region. This has played a significant role in the increase of passengers using the airport. The commission continues to invest resources to promote the services available at ROA and sincerely thanks our customers for choosing to fly ROA.
