North Dakota and South Dakota—known as the Peace Garden State and Mount Rushmore State, respectively—are home to a growing network of regional airports connecting the Dakotas to the rest of the country. In 2023, airports in these states boarded a combined 2.2 million passengers, marking an impressive 8.4% increase compared to 2022 levels.
The Four Busiest Airports in the Dakotas
The following four airports accounted for more than 81% of all passenger enplanements in the Dakotas. Here’s a closer look:
- FSD Joe Foss Field, Sioux Falls: With 655,505 passengers in 2023, Joe Foss Field is South Dakota's busiest airport. It serves as a major hub for travellers heading to destinations across the U.S.
- FAR Hector International Airport, Fargo: Leading North Dakota, Hector International Airport handled 522,976 passengers, providing key connections for both leisure and business travellers.
- RAP Rapid City Regional Airport: This gateway to the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore saw 345,532 passengers in 2023, making it South Dakota's second-busiest airport.
- BIS Bismarck Airport: As the capital city's airport, Bismarck boarded 258,780 passengers and serves as a vital travel hub for central North Dakota.
Passenger Share Across the Dakotas
Breaking down the enplanements by percentage, a donut chart illustrates the share of passenger traffic handled by these airports in 2023:
- FSD Joe Foss Field: 29.8%
- FAR Hector International Airport: 23.7%
- RAP Rapid City Regional Airport: 15.7%
- BIS Bismarck Airport: 11.8%
- Other Airports in the Dakotas: 19%
Key Gateways in the Dakotas
Joe Foss Field (FSD) continues to be South Dakota's busiest airport, while Hector International Airport (FAR) leads the pack in North Dakota. Together, these airports play a vital role in connecting the Dakotas to national and international destinations, driving economic growth and tourism across the region.
Celebrate the Dakotas with Airport Code Merchandise
Show your love for the Dakotas and their bustling airports with airport code merchandise from YHM Designs. From hats and mugs to throw pillows and more, you’ll find unique items featuring RAP, FAR, and other airport codes. Perfect for travellers, aviation enthusiasts, or anyone proud of their roots in the Dakotas!
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Discover the full collection of airport code merchandise by YHM Designs at YHM Designs.
How to cite:
Source: faa.gov. Illustration by YHM Designs.