Hays Regional Airport
Hays Regional Airport announced a record-breaking 15,032 enplanements in 2024, marking a significant milestone for the northwest Kansas travel hub.
The new high underscores the airport’s increasing role in connecting the region to vital services, economic opportunities, and global destinations.
“This achievement is incredibly exciting for everyone involved,” said Jamie Salter, Hays Regional Airport director. “We’ve worked diligently alongside our air service carrier, SkyWest Airlines operating under the United Airlines banner, to ensure Hays Regional Airport is an inviting and reliable option for residents. One of our biggest selling points is convenience. If you’re flying out of Hays, you can park for free close to the terminal, check in, and pass through security without the stress of heavy traffic or navigating a massive airport. That time saved is valuable, both for busy professionals and for families heading out on vacation.”
“Most people already know SkyWest serves our community with passenger jet service from the Hays Regional Airport. But the airport also provides vital resources to our region from cargo delivery, charter service, and flight instruction to emergency services like medical evacuation, search and rescue, and organ transport flights,” Salter said. “The airport has even been utilized as a base to fight wildfires.”
Salter said that the airport’s broad range of services has a ripple effect throughout the local and regional economy.
“We host business and general aviation aircraft operators daily who fuel our local businesses, purchase supplies, and even stay overnight in Hays-area hotels. The synergy between the airport and the larger community is a real driving force behind our success.”
Beyond the immediate economic benefits, the airport’s record enplanements signal a broader trend of local residents and businesses choosing air travel over lengthy drives to Denver, Kansas City, or Wichita.
Melissa Dixon, director of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, praised the Airport’s expanded influence in bringing the world to northwest Kansas—and vice versa.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled about the record enplanements,” Dixon said. “Each passenger represents a point of connection to global destinations, but it also means we’re bringing new visitors in. People attending conferences, college, family reunions, or just exploring Kansas can easily fly into Hays. It’s a major win for local tourism. An affordable, convenient way to travel ultimately benefits all aspects of our community, from cultural events to local businesses.”
Dixon emphasized the importance of offering reliable flight schedules that cater to both business and leisure travelers.
“We understand that people have busy lives. Whether you’re a parent trying to visit relatives out of state or an entrepreneur heading to an important conference, you need flights you can count on,” she said. “Hays Regional Airport, in partnership with SkyWest, has done an exceptional job maintaining flights that open up global travel possibilities. If anyone wants to see the current options, they can go to FlyHays.com for the latest schedules and details.”
As the airport’s enplanements surge, officials say their goal is to continue enhancing the traveler experience.
“We’ve completed some major updates inside the terminal to create a modern, welcoming atmosphere,” Salter said. “Our renovation work is ongoing, ensuring the terminal remains a place where people can relax, grab a snack, or catch up on emails before their flight. It’s all about making the experience as pleasant and hassle-free as possible for everyone who visits the airport. We want our travelers to feel comfortable and at ease the moment they walk through our doors.”
Salter and Dixon both credit community feedback for shaping the Airport’s services and amenities.
“We’re always listening,” Dixon said. “When local businesses or residents tell us they want earlier flights or have ideas for improvements, we share that with SkyWest and the airport staff. Our collaboration ensures we adapt to the community’s evolving needs.”
Salter praised the mutual cooperation among local government agencies, organizations, and local and regional stakeholders, noting that continuous communication and planning have positioned Hays Regional Airport as a key player in area development.
“The record-setting enplanements wouldn’t be possible without the entire region uniting around the importance of air service,” Salter said. “It’s truly a community achievement—one that underscores our commitment to serving northwest Kansas with safe, reliable, and convenient travel opportunities.”
For more information on flight times, booking details, and additional services, visit FlyHays.com or United.com.