The airport welcomed 21,236 enplaned passengers (total number of passengers boarding the aircraft at RAP) an increase of 34.8% from the same period in 2022 and 8.6% over the previous record period from 2019.

“2023 is starting strong, we are consistently seeing larger airplanes utilize our gates which contributed, in part, to January’s success. It is encouraging to see the airport’s passenger traffic steadily increase despite industry-wide flight crew shortages,” said Airport Executive Director Patrick Dame. “We look forward to another great year for travel in the Black Hills.”

Rapid City Regional Airport is the only full-service commercial airport for the Black Hills, serving several major cities throughout the United States. It is the mission of Rapid City Regional Airport to provide a safe, environmentally responsible, and fiscally self-sustainable operation ensuring high-quality services and facilities.