The Rogue Valley International – Medford Airport (MFR) again saw more than 1 million passengers pass through in 2019, a record that reflects the highest passenger traffic in its history – 1,087,873, up almost 8 percent from 2018!
This makes six years of record-breaking traffic in a row.
Gaining worldwide recognition, the local wine and tourism industry is a key factor in the Rogue Valley’s strong economic growth, seeing nearly 11,000 visitors come to our area every day. As a result, MFR has seen a 72 percent increase in passenger traffic since 2013. The Airport has now set passenger records for 34 consecutive months, and 58 out of the last 60 months.
Regarding MFR’s record breaking numbers, Airport Director Jerry Brienza stated, “We are very delighted to see the end year numbers at the levels they are, across the board. Our passenger numbers are growing, our general aviation community is growing, and our aircraft traffic is growing. We have every reason to believe that this upward trend will continue in 2020.”
Combined with current need and anticipation of future growth, MFR will be adding a third screening lane to the TSA Checkpoint and a second passenger loading bridge. TSA Checkpoint reconfiguration will take place this month, and construction for the new boarding bridge will begin Mid-April 2020. The boarding bridge should be completed by Mid-June 2020.
The Airport’s Master Plan is also under development. Once completed, the Plan will most likely include recommendations for terminal expansion, including the passenger gate area and construction of a second baggage claim carousel. MFR’s Master Plan consultant, Mead & Hunt, shows passenger projections to be 1.5 Million by the year 2030, and over 2 Million or more by 2040.
