Passenger traffic continues to show strong growth at Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport (AZO), which recorded 9,294 enplanements in August 2026, an 11.1% increase compared with August 2025.
Passenger growth significantly outpaced the increase in available airline seats. August seat capacity increased 3.4% year over year while enplanements increased 11.1%, which resulted in an increased load factor from 72.4% to 77.7%.
This wasn’t just a one-month anomaly, AZO also experienced strong growth throughout the summer travel period. Enplanements increased 8.5% year over year on a 3.3% increase in capacity.
Delta Air Lines’ fourth daily flight to Detroit, which began June 7, provided additional capacity and more connecting opportunities for travelers throughout Southwest Michigan. The results show that passenger demand grew at a faster rate than the additional seat capacity provided during the summer.
“What this shows is that we’re not just adding capacity, we’re filling more of the capacity we have. These results demonstrate the strong demand for convenient local air service,” said Craig Williams, Airport Director. “Delta’s fourth daily Detroit flight is an important addition complimented with American’s service over Chicago. The continued support from our SW Michigan strengthens the case for maintaining and expanding air service at AZO. Every flight counts, and every passenger who chooses AZO makes a difference.”
