The Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport continues to see 2018 traffic increase with May traffic up 13.9% on a year over year basis. May 2018 saw 61,261 passengers fly via ROA compared to 53,772 in May of 2017 an increase of 7,489 passengers.

Strong community support and improved airline operational reliability have all played roles in the continuation of sustained passenger growth, which began in September of 2016. May 2018 saw 13.9% passenger growth over May 2017, the last time monthly year over year growth was larger than last month was in January 2007 driven by the arrival of Allegiant Air in Roanoke.  Year to date 2018 traffic is up 7.5% versus 2017. May 2018 was busier than October 2017, October typically being the busiest month at ROA. At this pace the airport is on track to have its busiest year since 2011.

“We are pleased to see this positive trend continue into 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.”

The Commission continually works with the airlines to improve reliability, reduce air fare and upgrade equipment serving the region.  This has played a significant role in the increase of passengers using the airport.  In addition, the commission has invested resources to promote the services available at ROA and 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 616,000 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.

###