Rockford Airport Sets Passenger Record in 2025

Cargo activity also reaches new heights at Chicago Rockford International Airport.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Chicago Rockford International Airport served a record 310,000 passengers in 2025, surpassing its previous high. The airport also saw a 9.25% increase in air cargo activity, reaching 3.4 billion pounds of landed weight. The announcement credited the passenger growth to expanded routes and travel options, as well as the airport's focus on providing a convenient and dependable experience for travelers.

Why it matters

The record-breaking passenger and cargo numbers at Rockford Airport demonstrate the facility's growing importance as a regional transportation hub. The airport's continued investments in infrastructure and partnerships with airlines and cargo carriers have positioned it as a vital economic engine for the Rockford area.

The details

In 2025, Rockford Airport added new travel options, including American Airlines service operated by Landline, which connects passengers to over 350 destinations worldwide. The airport's cargo business also saw strong performance, with steady volumes from key carrier partners, expanded international partnerships, and continued market demand. Amazon Air celebrated five years since opening its Rockford operation, while Allegiant Air marked 20 years of partnership with the airport.

  • In 2025, Rockford Airport served a record 310,000 passengers.
  • In 2025, Rockford Airport's air cargo activity reached 3.4 billion pounds of landed weight, a 9.25% increase from the previous year.

The players

Zack Oakley

The executive director of Chicago Rockford International Airport.

Amazon Air

An air cargo division of Amazon that has operated out of Rockford Airport since 2020.

Allegiant Air

An airline that has partnered with Rockford Airport for 20 years, flying over 3.6 million passengers out of the airport since 2005.

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What they’re saying

“We've always believed that when you make travel simple and dependable, people respond. Breaking 310,000 passengers is a clear signal that travelers value the experience we offer here, and we're proud to keep building passenger service that works for our community.”

— Zack Oakley, Executive Director, Chicago Rockford International Airport (rrstar.com)

“Our cargo business is built on consistency, speed, and trust. That's why long-term partners continue to invest here, and why RFD continues to play an outsized role in the national supply chain and our regional economy.”

— Zack Oakley, Executive Director, Chicago Rockford International Airport (rrstar.com)

What’s next

The airport plans to continue expanding its passenger and cargo services in the coming years, leveraging its strategic location and partnerships to drive further growth and economic impact for the Rockford region.

The takeaway

Rockford Airport's record-breaking performance in 2025 underscores its emergence as a vital transportation hub, serving both passenger and cargo needs. The airport's focus on convenience, reliability, and strategic partnerships has allowed it to capitalize on growing demand and cement its role as an economic engine for the local community.