FARGO, N.D. (April 17, 2023)– Hector International Airport’s passenger traffic continues to significantly increase, including a record-setting month. March brought nearly 100,000 passengers through Hector, the most ever in Hector’s recorded history.    

In March 2023, 48,032 passengers boarded planes at Hector. This is an increase of 11% when compared to March 2022 passenger enplanements. In addition, 50,344 passengers landed at Hector. This is an increase of 12% when compared to March 2022 passenger deplanements. The total passenger count of passengers departing and arriving at Hector in March was 98,376, up 11% over the same period last year. 

“Travel numbers are continuing to increase and exceed our expectations. Not only is traffic growing but so is our airport. We are in the process of expanding our terminal which is set to begin Spring of 2024,” says Shawn Dobberstein, executive director. “Our biggest priority for travelers is safety and efficiency. We are honored to continue welcoming passengers on their next adventure.”  

The continued growth at Hector is the primary reason for the terminal expansion project currently underway. “With passenger growth, there is a need for more capacity within the terminal at the airport,” explains Dobberstein. “This is a really exciting time for Hector and Fargo as a whole.”  

The terminal expansion will allow for additional aircraft at the airport but also create greater efficiencies, functionality, an improved passenger experience, modernization and post security amenities. “All of these elements relate to serving more passengers as the airport continues to grow,” shares Dobberstein. 

Three all-time passenger records were broken in March 2023: 

• Enplanements in March 2023 with 48,032 passengers breaks the previous record set in December 2019 with 46,021 passengers. 
• Deplanements in March 2023 with 50,344 passengers breaks the previous record set in March 2022 with 44,931 passengers. 
• Enplanement and deplanement passengers in March 2023 with 98,376 passengers breaks the previous record set in December 2019 with 89,409 passengers. 

Join the growing number of passengers flying with ease and fewer hassles by choosing Hector International Airport for your flight. You can count on quick, convenient and affordable options to make your travel experience better.  

The Airport Authority started the FAA required Terminal Area Study in 2019. The study was suspended due to the pandemic, and resumed in August of 2021 with a 2022 completion. Learn more about the terminal expansion project and monthly air travel statistics for Hector at fargoairport.com.