Passenger Traffic Continues to Grow at ROA

December traffic increased 4.5% year over year at the Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport as 2018 continues the trend of strong traffic growth.

Roanoke VA., January 30, 2019 – The Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport continued to see traffic increase with December traffic up 4.5% on a year over year basis. December 2018 saw 52,498 passengers fly via ROA compared to 50,197 in December of 2017 an increase of 2,301 passengers. Year ending 2018 traffic was up 7.2% versus 2017, which equates to 44,471 more passengers. This past year marks the best year in terms of passenger traffic since 2007.

Strong community support, an improved regional economy and airline operational reliability have all played roles in the continuation of sustained passenger growth, which began in September of 2016. December 2018 saw 4.5% passenger growth over December 2017. 

“We are very pleased to see this positive trend continue through 2018, especially given our strong traffic numbers in 2016 and 2017,” 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 customers are using our existing air service and the carriers have taken note. We appreciate the support of our community choosing to fly ROA. Between our traffic growth and Small Community Air Service grant we are hopeful of obtaining additional air service”.

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.  We sincerely thanks our customers for choosing to fly ROA.

ABOUT THE ROANOKE-BLACKSBURG REGIONAL AIRPORT

The Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport is the primary airport for Virginia’s Blue Ridge and the New River Valley.  ROA serves over 660,000 passengers per year via 4 airlines (American Airlines, Delta Airlines, United Airlines, and Allegiant Air) with nonstop service to 6 (Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, New York LaGuardia, Philadelphia, and Washington Dulles) hub cities as well as weekly flights to Orlando Sanford International Airport and St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport. To learn more, please visit www.flyroa.com.

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