Renoe-Tahoe International Airport has recorded 4.9 million passengers in 2025, a number that beats the previous year’s 4.8 million passenger traffic and marking the busiest year since 2008 despite significant challenges due to the government shutdown. The growth has been attributed to an additional 85,000 roundtrip seats throughout the year, with new routes from carriers such as Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and JSX.
2025 also saw the launch of the Reno-Stead Airport Master Plan which evaluates existing facilities, forecasts aviation demand, and identifies opportunities for development. Additionally, the airport advanced a new concessions programme to enhance the passenger experience and create opportunities for businesses, which includes the pending launch of public solicitations called Requests for Proposals, where businesses can be identified for the airport’s retail spaces.
“This record represents years of planning, partnership and persistence,” said Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority President and CEO Daren Griffin, who will depart the organisation in early 2026. “Our team never lost sight of serving our community, even during some of our most challenging moments.”
The growth is expected to extend into 2026 with a 4% increase in airline seats for the summer, and with the continuation of MoreRNO, a billion-dollar infrastrcucture programme that includes a Central Utility Plant (CUP), the Police and Airport Authority Headquarters, and the Ground Transportation Center (GTC). The airport expects to break ground on two new concourses in 2026, which will mark the final phase of MoreRNO.
“For me, this year is also a moment of gratitude,” added Griffin. “I’m incredibly proud of what this team has built together and confident the airport is on the right track for the future.”
Photo: Reno-Tahoe Airport
