So far in 2024, XNA has experienced more than 250,000 in-flight flights, a record for the airport in the first three months of the year.
ARKANSAS, USA — Arkansas' small airports are off to a strong start into 2024 so far.
Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA) in Highfill is off to a record start to the year despite what is typically its slowest month.
“January and February are typically the slowest months,” said Olivia Tyler, public relations manager at XNA. “January and February 2024 were the busiest to date. January was up 13.4% compared to 2023, and February was up 17.8% compared to 2023.”
Tyler added that the record-breaking year is no surprise. She said the strong start was a carryover from her previous year.
“I think there's somewhat of a question mark as to what 2024 is going to look like,” Tyler said. “In 2023, it was often classified as a revenge trip. It appears that this is not a revenge trip, as this increase in seaplanes continues and is penetrating into 2024. It seems that leveraging XNA is the new standard.”
XNA isn't the only airport getting off to a strong start this year.
Fort Smith Regional Airport (FSM) has seen an increase in the number of travelers so far this year compared to last year. According to the airport's passenger activity records, there were a total of 13,682 boardings in the first three months and 12,593 boardings last year.
Airport Manager Michael Griffin said he believes the increase is related to more regular business travel in and out of Fort Smith since COVID-19.
Griffin added that American plans to add a fourth flight in June to accommodate the increase in summer travelers.
Please note that XNA is currently undergoing renovation work for terminal expansion. Tyler added that more projects are in the works to address increased traffic.
“The XNA access road will be a great amenity for passengers coming from the southern part of the region, and it has been talked about time and time again over the past 25 years prior to the airport opening,” Tyler said. Ta. The fact that we have finally embarked on this project will be of great benefit to passengers. ”
The groundbreaking ceremony for the XNA access road will be held on Wednesday, April 17th at 11 a.m.
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