Fueled by local demand, the Quad Cities International Airport recorded its busiest month since October 2019. Local customers also are helping spur the addition of new daily flights by three of QCIA’s carriers.
The Moline-based regional airport saw a 6% year-over-year increase in passenger traffic for July 2025 compared to July 2024, a QCIA news release said. A total of 63,319 passengers traveled through the airport designated MLI in July, underscoring steady recovery and growing regional demand for air travel, the monthly report said.
“Every ticket purchased out of QC Airport shows airlines that our region can support more routes and added frequency – one of the key factors they consider when expanding service,” QCIA Executive Director Benjamin Leischner said in the release.
“We are grateful to our passengers for choosing to fly local. The growth we’re seeing is a direct result of that support, and together we can continue building more travel options right here at home.”
This demand is already driving action from airlines, QCIA said. For example, American Airlines recently added a third daily flight to Dallas–Fort Worth. That’s one of the largest airports in the world with access to 76 international and 192 domestic destinations. United Airlines also added a fifth daily flight to Chicago O’Hare to meet that strong demand. Allegiant Air also extended its booking window through early summer and will resume twice-weekly flights to Sarasota on March 13.
“Passenger feedback for Sarasota’s inaugural season earlier this year was overwhelmingly positive,” Mr. Leischner added. “We thank Allegiant for continuing to invest in the Quad Cities and look forward to its continued success.”
About QCIA
With 408,419 total passengers served so far this year – that 6% increase over the same period in 2024 – QCIA said it remains committed to enhancing the travel experience through reliable service, strategic route development and a customer-first focus.
QCIA serves passengers from western Illinois and eastern Iowa. With nonstop and connecting destinations, the airport serves as a vital economic connector and engine for the Quad Cities region.
Four major airlines operate out of QCIA including Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines. The airport boasts a 10,000-foot runway that can land any aircraft in any weather condition, as well as U.S. Customs and Border Protection as an International Port of Entry Airport, making it ideal for commercial flights and general aviation. Charter and fueling services are available.
For more information visit qcairport.com.
