What is a regional airport (and why does it matter)?

Regional carriers are struggling to meet demand leading to fewer frequencies, suspended routes and higher airfare. We share the frustration with passengers. That’s why it’s more important than ever to support the Quad Cities International Airport’s role in the wider airport network and our region. 

Regional airports are vital in connecting smaller communities to global travel and commerce. Large hub airports, like Chicago O’Hare, rely on regional airports to feed their network. In 2019, more than 50% of Chicago O’Hare’s traffic came from regional airlines. 

But due to resource constraints, several airports recently lost all commercial service and more than 150 airports have lost at least 25% of their air service. 

Airports don’t control the cost of airfare or where airlines fly. Airlines keep costs competitive at O’Hare because the market is flooded with options. Alternatively, with less competition at regional airports, airlines charge a premium. Ultra-low-cost-carriers, like Allegiant and Frontier, also help decrease airfare with legacy carriers like American, United and Delta. 

The QC airport is financially strong so we’re able to offer aggressive incentives to attract routes and airlines to the Quad Cities. Ultimately, airlines make decisions based on passenger data, the region’s economic outlook, and the availability of crew and planes.

Historically, the QC airport catered to a large volume of business travelers. This is why it’s essential for local businesses to support and advocate for the airport. 

Airports are economic engines. Our annual economic output is nearly $700 million and nearly 1,400 people work on airport property. Regional airports help businesses expand and attract new companies to the area. Our port of entry status is a big reason many major local businesses continue operating in the Quad Cities. Having a local airport also helps attract talent. Passengers rely on the airport for business trips, vacations and visiting loved ones. 

We’re evolving efforts around commercial air service advocacy. But we’re also pursuing avenues that will positively impact our region. We support a thriving general aviation community that includes a flight school. Revv Aviation, Elliott Aviation and John Deere Aviation call the QC airport home. We support new aviation technologies that need what we can offer — space, affordability and a willingness to embrace bold ideas. 

Our mission is to provide safe, efficient and convenient air transportation facilities while promoting economic development and commerce, thereby contributing to the Quad Cities region. 

We must support the Quad Cities’ hometown airport. We must also seek safe, strategic solutions to ensure our community stays connected to the world.   

Benjamin Leischner, A.A.E., is executive director of the Quad Cities International Airport. He can be reached at bleischner@qcairport.com.