Columbia airport shows financial lift amid record travel

Columbia Regional Airport is seeing signs of a financial turnaround after years of operating losses.

Officials say record passenger numbers and new flight announcements are helping boost momentum.

The airport ended the 2024 fiscal year with a three-point-two million dollar loss, but city leaders say that figure includes planned capital projects, not just daily expenses.

Two record-setting travel months this fall came after United Airlines added flights to Denver.

And starting next summer, Allegiant Airlines will launch new routes to Florida destinations.

Airport leaders hope the growth brings more travelers from across mid-Missouri though they say rising costs and limited parking remain challenges.