Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), the only full-service commercial airport serving the Black Hills area, saw a record-breaking year in 2024 with 856,248 total enplaning and deplaning passengers, a 21.9% increase over the previous record set in 20231. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the growth and vitality of the region, highlighting the plentiful economic opportunities that are available for businesses, residents, and travelers alike.
Growing to Meet Soaring Demand
Currently, a massive expansion of the Rapid City Regional Airport is underway to address the need for increased efficiency and amenities following a steady surge in flights over recent years. Phase One of the project kicked off in October 2023 and concentrates on improving critical operational areas of the airport such as ticket counters, TSA checkpoints, and luggage screening.2 Future expansion projects will include adding more gates, upgrading the car rental area, and relocating the airport administration offices.3
In the meantime, more direct flights to major cities continue to be announced by airport officials, with direct flights to Atlanta, GA, through Delta being the most recent addition.
These efforts ensure that Rapid City Regional Airport not only meets current demand but also positions itself as a key player in the future of regional and national air travel.
Expanded Possibilities
The increase in passenger numbers is more than a statistical achievement; it translates directly into tangible benefits for the Black Hills community. Here’s how the increased activity, as well as the current expansion effects, are causing the airport to make waves across the region:
- Job Creation: According to its most recent economic impact report, the airport currently supports 2,883 jobs in Pennington County, with these numbers including commercial visitors, general aviation, and airport operations.4 With the addition of more gates and direct flights, jobs are expected to continue to grow over the coming years.
- Tourism Boost: The Black Hills is already a thriving tourist destination; however, the airport’s expansion and addition of new routes will open doors for more travelers to explore the region’s attractions. Whether it’s enjoying the natural beauty of Spearfish Canyon or taking in the excitement of the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, visitors from all walks of life will experience more convenience during their travel to the area.
- Business Opportunities: Easier access to air travel fosters business growth, with companies more likely to invest in regions with strong transportation links. The increase in direct flights will allow business travelers to skip layovers in places like Denver and Minneapolis and provide a more efficient means of getting to their destination.
Sky’s The Limit
The record-breaking achievements at Rapid City Regional Airport symbolize much more than increased passengers; they represent a region on the rise. As the airport continues to grow, it will remain a cornerstone of economic vitality, connecting people, businesses, and ideas while shaping the future of the region.
Sources:
- ‘Rapid City Regional Airport Achieved Record Passenger Numbers in 2024’. Rapid City Business Journal, January 2025.
- Jones, Zada. “Rapid City Regional Airport Continues Work on Pivotal Project.” KOTA Territory, November 20, 2024, https://www.kotatv.com/2024/11/21/rapid-city-regional-airport-continues-working-pivotal-project/
- Maher, Catherine. “Rapid City Regional Airport Embarks on a Monumental Expansion.” Rapid City Journal, October 23, 2023.
- Glupker, Christian. “Rapid City Regional Airport Economic Impact”. 2023.
