North Dakota Sets New Airline Passenger Record in 2024

North Dakota’s air travel industry soared to new heights in 2024, setting an all-time record for airline passenger boardings at the state’s eight commercial service airports. According to the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission’s (NDAC) newly released annual report, a total of 1,246,520 passengers boarded flights in the state this year—a 10% increase from 2023 and a figure that surpasses the previous record set during the oil boom of 2014.

“This success reflects the dedication of our airports, airlines, and communities in ensuring that North Dakota remains a leader in air service quality and accessibility,” said Kyle Wanner, NDAC Executive Director. “We are proud of these accomplishments and remain focused on supporting continual growth and expanding the opportunities that aviation provides for our residents, visitors, and businesses.”

The report also noted that 2024 marked the eighth consecutive month of record-breaking passenger totals across North Dakota’s commercial service airports. A total of 2,486,510 passengers traveled through the state’s airports when combining both arrivals and departures.

Growth Across the State

Several of North Dakota’s airports achieved notable milestones in 2024:

• Fargo Hector International Airport recorded 546,787 boardings, surpassing its previous record of 516,071 set in 2023. The increase has driven forward a terminal expansion project, which began in early 2024 and is expected to be completed in 2026.
• Devils Lake Airport also set a new passenger record with 9,538 boardings, exceeding its 2023 record of 8,087.
• Six of North Dakota’s commercial airports saw year-over-year passenger growth, reflecting a statewide increase in air travel demand.

Strengthening Air Travel and Aviation Careers

The NDAC’s report highlights the resilience of North Dakota’s aviation sector following the sharp downturn in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, when annual boardings dropped below 600,000 passengers. Since then, the state’s airports have recovered and surpassed pre-pandemic levels, underscoring the importance of aviation in connecting North Dakota to the national and global economy.

With six year-round nonstop destinations and four additional seasonal routes, North Dakota airports continue to expand air travel options for residents and businesses. The NDAC also noted that the ongoing growth presents new opportunities in the aviation workforce, with increasing demand for pilots, aircraft mechanics, airport operators, and unmanned aircraft technicians.

As North Dakota’s aviation industry looks ahead, the commission remains focused on infrastructure improvements, expanding flight availability, and strengthening economic opportunities within the sector.