SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (Dakota News Now) – In 2024, Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen, Pierre, and Watertown airports saw a total of nearly 1.2 million passengers.
That’s an increase of 13.6% from 2023.
Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) and Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD), accounted for 96% of total air traffic.
The Sioux Falls Regional Airport saw the most passengers, with 712,011 taking flight in 2024.
The Rapid City Regional Airport saw 427,325 passengers in 2040. That’s a 23.9% increase from 2023.
“Air travel is growing like never before in Rapid City, and it’s exciting to see the impact it’s having,” said Patrick Dame, executive director of Rapid City Regional Airport.
According to Mike Tanner from Watertown Radio, the Watertown City Council has recommended SkyWest Airlines to take the place of Denver Air Connection as its commercial airline.
The main reason for choosing Sky West is the full codeshare agreement SkyWest has with four major airlines–Alaska, American, Delta, and United.
This decision follows suit with the Pierre City Commission recommending SkyWest be the new air service provider for Pierre.
The U.S. DOT will announce the official decision in the spring.
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