The Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) today announced a series of major milestones, including record-breaking passenger numbers, the return of popular domestic and international destinations, and the addition of a new international route.

Record-High Passenger Numbers

March 2025 marked RFD’s best month ever, with a 34% increase in enplanements compared to last March and a 27% overall increase year-over-year. Passenger growth has been consistent across the year, with January up 15%, February up 27%, and March up 34% compared to the same months in 2024.

“The consistency in growth for passenger travel underscores the airport’s commitment to providing reliable and efficient services to travelers,” said Zack Oakley, RFD Executive Director. “We are excited about the future growth of our passenger services.”

Nashville Flights Return Starting May 22, 2025

With the success of last season’s Nashville flights, RFD is pleased to announce the return of direct flights to Nashville International Airport (BNA). Seasonal service will operate every Thursday and Sunday beginning May 22, 2025, providing travelers with convenient, nonstop access to one of the country’s most vibrant cities.

International Service with ALG Vacations

RFD also confirmed the return of its popular international flights in partnership with ALG Vacations. Starting this year, travelers can once again enjoy flights to Cancun, Mexico and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. In addition, a new destination—Huatulco, Mexico—will be offered. Ticket sales for all international flights will begin May 3, 2025. Please note that service to Costa Rica will not return this year and has instead been updated to Huatulco, Mexico.

“As we maintain our existing services and embark on exciting new ventures, we anticipate continued growth and success for RFD,” Oakley said. “We remain dedicated to serving our community, providing exceptional services, and driving economic prosperity for the region.”

RFD is currently served by Allegiant Air, offering nonstop flights to seven destinations including Las Vegas, NV; Nashville, TN; Phoenix, AZ; and several cities in Florida—Orlando, Tampa, Punta Gorda, and Sarasota.

For more information about RFD, visit flyrfd.com.

About Chicago Rockford International Airport

The Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) is ranked as the 15th largest airport in the United States for air cargo with more than 3.1 billion pounds of landed weight in 2024. The Airport is home to the second-largest UPS hub in North America and a major base of operations for Amazon Air. The Airport campus encompasses an aviation maintenance repair facility (AAR) as well as other aircraft maintenance operations capable of servicing next-generation aircraft. There is also an aviation education maintenance program (Rock Valley College) on airport grounds that is turning out a highly trained and skilled workforce.

RFD and its tenants are home to more than 8,000 jobs and contribute millions of dollars of economic impact to the region annually.

Additionally, RFD has several direct domestic and international passenger flights which further strengthens the airport as a key transportation hub to the region. RFD offers direct passenger flights through Allegiant Airlines to Nashville, TN; Ft. Myers/Punta Gorda, Sarasota, Orlando, and Tampa, FL; Phoenix, AZ; and Las Vegas, NV.

Visit FlyRFD.com for more information.