Passenger Traffic Growth Continues at ROA in January

Feb. 27, 2019
January traffic was up 11.5 percent year over year at the Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport as 2019 begins with strong traffic growth

The Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport has started 2019 off with strong growth as January traffic was up 11.5 percent on a year over year basis. Compared to January 2018 passenger traffic grew at 11.5 percent or 5,118 passengers. In January of 2019, 49,464 passengers flew via ROA compared to 44,346 in January of 2018.

For the full year of 2018, 660,836 passengers flew via ROA compared to 616,365 in 2018 and 608,288 in 2016. 2018 was the busiest year at ROA since 2007.

Strong community support, additional capacity, and improved airline operational reliability have all played roles in the continuation of sustained passenger growth, which began in September of 2016.   

“We are pleased to see this positive trend continue into 2019, especially given our strong traffic numbers in 2017 and 2018,” 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 carriers have added capacity at ROA and our customers have utilized it. We appreciate the support of our community choosing to fly ROA. Carriers will not add service to a market if the current service is not being used.”

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.  In addition, the commission has invested resources to promote the services available at ROA and sincerely thanks our customers for choosing to fly ROA.