Wichita Eisenhower National Airport set a passenger traffic record in 2017 with a total of 1,620,240 passengers arriving and departing ICT. The previous record year was set in 2008 with 1,619,075 total passengers. Compared to 2016, the 2017 passengers increased by 1.12%.
Although the 2017 total surpassed the 2008 record by less than 1%, the record is significant based on the changes in the industry. In 2008, there were 29% more flights and 15% more seats on nine airlines at ICT. Four of those airlines no longer exist: AirTran, Continental, Northwest and US Airways.
Alaska Airlines’ nonstop service to Seattle has been popular and is mainly responsible for the record year. American and Delta also showed passenger increases. Allegiant and United showed decreases. Southwest Airlines’ traffic was flat compared to 2016 but had 3% less capacity in 2017. Charter activity also increased.
2016 & 2017 Passengers
| Airlines (by Carriers) | 2017 Passengers | 2016 Passengers | Passenger Change | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allegiant Air | 84,320 | 92,352 | (8,032) | -9% |
| Alaska Airlines | 34,271 | 34,271 | 100% | |
| American Airlines | 405,859 | 401,745 | 4,114 | 1% |
| Delta Air Lines | 340,196 | 329,352 | 10,844 | 3% |
| Southwest Airlines | 302,263 | 302,244 | 19 | 0% |
| United Airlines | 450,345 | 473,987 | (23,642) | -5% |
| Others | 2,986 | 2,631 | 355 | 13% |
| Total | 1,620,240 | 1,602,311 | 17,929 | 1.12% |
“The increased demand for air travel at ICT is a testament to the airport’s focus on developing quality air service and commitment to the traveling public’s experience,” said Mayor Jeff Longwell. “Affordable and accessible air service is essential for our region’s economic development. This record reflects the positive economic health and growth of the area.”
“I want to thank our airline partners and all the passengers for making this happen,” said Valerie Wise, Air Service and Marketing Manager. “The two main factors constraining passenger growth are capacity reductions and high fares to certain destinations. We are working to address these concerns.”
