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County Executive's Office

Dane County Regional Airport Records One of Its Busiest Summer Travel Seasons and its Busiest Week in History

August 29, 2025
Tomasz Pajor, (608) 661-6442
Airport

(Madison, WI) – Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) continues to see strong growth in 2025, with more than 200,000 passengers traveling through MSN in both June and July, marking two of the busiest months in recent airport history. This summer surge highlights the region’s increasing demand for convenient air travel and MSN’s ability to serve as a growing gateway to destinations across the country.

 

The strong monthly performance was punctuated by one of the busiest weeks in airport history during August 16–21, fueled by EPIC conference attendees, Fort McCoy military travelers and summer leisure demand. During that period, MSN:

  • set single-day records for passenger traffic, TSA screenings, and baggage handling.
  • enjoyed high load factors (up to 99% seat occupancy on August 21).
  • managed smooth passenger flow despite record volumes, with no major checkpoint delays.

 

“These summer results underscore the incredible growth and potential of Dane County Regional Airport,” said Airport Director Mark Papko. “From record-setting daily totals to back-to-back months exceeding 200,000 travelers, the airport continues to prove the strength of our market. Our ability to deliver a smooth, efficient travel experience under record demand is a credit to our team and airline partners.”

 

With these milestones, MSN is further strengthening its case for expanded nonstop destinations and additional service for Madison-area travelers. In addition, the airport is on track to break all-time passenger travel records in 2025.

 

The Dane County Regional Airport provides convenient, low-stress, and affordable options for both leisure and business travelers with daily arrivals and departures, 17 non-stops and one-stop service that provides access to nearly every major city worldwide. The airport also features new and updated restaurants, bars, and shopping. Travelers will also find added amenities aimed at making travel easier and more convenient such as a new Mother’s Lounge, Children’s Play Area, meeting rooms, free WiFi6, an indoor pet relief area, and more. Visit msnairport.com for more information.

 

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