Dane County Regional Airport Celebrates Historic 2024 Travel

February 26, 2025
Michael Riechers, (608) 220-5454
Airport

Second-Highest Year in Airport History for Passenger Traffic

Madison, WI – Dane County Regional Airport (DCRA) closed out 2024 with its second-highest passenger traffic year in its 85-year history, reaching pre-pandemic levels. The airport served 2,347,990 total passengers—just 1.4% shy of its all-time record in 2019. Notably, the last four months of 2024 (September through December) outpaced the same period in 2019, with early indicators suggesting this growth has continued into early 2025.
 

DCRA attributes this success to the return of key destinations, the introduction of new services and a new airline, the ability to accommodate larger commercial aircraft, and sustained high demand for air travel.
 

Dane County Regional Airport continues to provide a high-quality, convenient travel experience for residents and visitors alike,” said Dane County Executive Melissa Agard. “This surge in passenger traffic is a positive sign—it means more people are coming to our region for business and leisure, and our airport is making global travel easier than ever for our community.”
 

Among MSN’s top nonstop destinations in 2024 were Denver, Phoenix, Washington D.C., and Orlando. With travel momentum increasing in late 2024, DCRA expects a record-breaking spring break travel season in 2025.
 

“MSN is committed to delivering the exceptional service and convenience our travelers have come to expect, even during our busiest periods,” said Michael Riechers, Director of Marketing and Communications at DCRA. “We do encourage travelers to arrive early during peak travel times, as parking is likely to be near full capacity. To ensure a smooth experience, we recommend planning alternate transportation options, such as carpooling, using Madison Metro bus service, taxis, or ride-sharing services.”
 

Celebrating more than 85 years of commercial aviation, Dane County Regional Airport offers seamless, stress-free, and affordable travel options for both leisure and business travelers. With frequent daily departures and one-stop connections to nearly every major international destination, DCRA remains a premier gateway to the world. Recent airport improvements include a new Mother’s Lounge, a Children’s Play Area, Meeting Rooms, and free WiFi 6. For more information, visit msnairport.com.

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