The Dane County Regional Airport set a record in 2025 for the number of passengers served, with nearly 2.5 million taking to the skies from Madison’s airport.
The previous all-time record was set in 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic, which was about 100,000 passengers fewer than last year.
The record total is a 6% increase compared to 2024.
In a statement, the airport said the increase was thanks to new and returning air service in 2025, including the return of summer seasonal service to Los Angeles, added flights to New York–LaGuardia, seasonal nonstop additions to Phoenix, Fort Myers and Miami, and the first year of Breeze Airways operating out of Madison.
“Record passenger volume reflects confidence in the future of Dane County,” Dane County Executive Melissa Agard said in a statement. “A thriving airport is an economic engine that supports local business growth, attracts visitors and makes it easier to recruit and retain talent. The airport’s success creates momentum that benefits our entire community.”
Dane County Regional Airport Executive Director Mark Papko said the record is an indicator of how the community supports the airport.
“More travelers are choosing to fly local because of the convenience, amenities and expanding nonstop flight options we offer,” Papko said in a statement.
In the past two months, the airport announced two new nonstop flights from Madison to Boston on American Airlines and Delta Air Lines, as well as new nonstop service to Raleigh on Breeze Airways, each starting in the spring of 2026.
“Setting a new all-time passenger record sends a clear signal to our airline partners that our market is strong and growing,” Papko said. “We are grateful for the travelers of the region for choosing to fly local, and our staff, airlines, vendors and travel partners in helping make this achievement possible.”
Papko became director of the airport in July.
