The North Dakota Aeronautics Commission (NDAC) has released its monthly report detailing airline passenger traffic at the state’s eight commercial service airports.
In March 2025, North Dakota’s commercial airports recorded 123,180 passenger boardings — the highest monthly total in state history. This figure surpasses the previous record of 117,380 set in December 2024 and marks the eleventh consecutive month of record-breaking passenger volumes statewide.
Compared to March 2024, these numbers represent an impressive 20% year over-year increase with 20,468 additional passengers boarding North Dakota’s airports throughout this month.
March is historically one of the busiest months for air travel in North Dakota, largely driven by spring break travel. This year, that seasonal activity was further bolstered by increased airline service, including additional flight frequency and expanded seat capacity—both of which played a crucial role in meeting the rising demand.
North Dakota Air Service Growth Snapshot:
- Throughout the month of March 2024, airlines offered 123,895 seats and operated 1,461 flight departures statewide.
- In March 2025, those numbers increased to 154,128 seats and 1,828 flight departures, showcasing significant growth in both capacity and connectivity.
- North Dakota’s continued growth in passenger traffic reflects strong statewide demand for air service and the importance of ongoing collaboration between airports, airlines, and the communities they serve.
“These record-breaking numbers reflect not only strong demand from the traveling public but also the commitment of our airline partners to enhance service in our communities by increasing both capacity and flight frequency,” said Kyle Wanner, Executive Director of the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission. “As more people are choosing to fly, it’s clear that the investments being made at our airports to expand air service options are making a positive impact for travelers across the state.”
Individual Airport – March Passenger Records:
- Fargo – Hector International Airport experienced its busiest month ever, with 56,399 passenger boardings—surpassing its previous all-time high set in December 2024. This also marks a new record for the month of March, exceeding the prior peak of 48,032 set in 2023. Notably, Fargo has now seen twelve consecutive months of all-time high passenger activity.
- The Bismarck Municipal Airport also experienced its busiest month ever, with 29,343 passenger boardings—surpassing its previous all-time high set in December 2019. This also marks a new record for the month of March, exceeding the prior peak of 27,623 set in 2019.
View the March Airline Boarding Report
March 2025 Statewide Airline Passenger Statistics
- Total Airline Passenger Boardings: 123,180
- Available Airline Departure Seats: 154,128
- Average Aircraft Load Factor: 80%
- Number of Successful Airline Departure Flights: 1,828
- Number of Airline Departure Flight Cancellations: 8
- Airline Departure Flight Cancellation Rate: 0.4%
