Passenger traffic at ICT declined 1.88% in March 2018 compared to a year ago. A total of 130,079 passengers used ICT compared to 132,577 in March 2017. For the year, total passenger traffic is up 1.87%. The decline in March is due to a 6.7% decrease in available seats. United Airlines, in particular, cut 8,072 seats in March – a decrease of 31.3% from March 2017. United calls the reduction in seats “seasonal shaping.” During the busy summer travel season, some of our airlines have added capacity during May – August, but total capacity will be down 4%. American added 5%, Delta 2% and Southwest 2%. Alaska’s capacity remains unchanged, Allegiant is down 16% and United is down 16%. Passengers can expect full flights and should arrive at the airport about 90 minutes before departure to allow time for parking, checking in, and screening.
The NCAA tournament had a positive impact on general aviation operations, which increased 11.15% over March 2017. Rental car revenue was also up 11.33%. The monthly statistical reports can be found here.
Southwest is adding a second flight to Las Vegas on Sundays this summer. This service will run from July 1 – August 5. Departure times on Sunday are 1:25 pm and 6:55 pm. Arrival times back into Wichita are 12:55 pm and 6:25 pm.
