Hector International Airport (KFGO file photo)
BISMARCK, N.D. (KFGO) – The North Dakota Aeronautics Commission has released its monthly airline passenger report for the state’s eight commercial service airports.
In September, North Dakota airports recorded 103,559 passenger boardings, setting a new all-time high for the month of September. That surpasses the previous record of 98,371 set in 2024—a 5% year-over-year increase, representing nearly 5,200 additional travelers. It also marks the first time airline boardings in North Dakota exceeded 100,000 in the month of September.
Seven of the eight airports also posted growth compared to last September, contributing to the state’s seventeenth consecutive month of record-breaking passenger traffic.
Airline capacity also expanded throughout the state, with 131,149 total airline seats available for purchase in September—up from 126,120 one year ago. Scheduled airline departures throughout North Dakota increased to 1,781 flights, compared to 1,567 in September of 2024. The average statewide aircraft load factor also held strong at 79%, reflecting continued demand for current air service levels.
The state remains on pace to close out 2025 with its highest-ever annual passenger traffic.
“North Dakota airports continued to see record-breaking passenger traffic, highlighting the strength of our state’s air service network,” said Kyle Wanner, Executive Director of the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission. “Although the federal government shutdown that began in early October is still ongoing, travelers can be confident that airline operations continue to remain on schedule and that our airports are fully prepared to continue to serve passengers.”
Fargo’s Hector International Airport set a new September record with 46,258 boardings, surpassing the previous high of 43,663 set in September 2024. This also marks Fargo’s 18th consecutive month of all-time monthly highs.
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