The Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) has been honored as Primary Airport of the Year by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), Division of Aeronautics, in recognition of its operational excellence, safety performance, and contributions to the state’s aviation and economic development.
The award was presented during the Illinois Public Airports Association Fall Conference held in Galena on September 29. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a “Primary Airport” is one that accommodates more than 10,000 annual airline passengers — a benchmark RFD has consistently surpassed in recent years.
RFD earned the distinction for its strong partnership with IDOT, commitment to safety and customer service, and active promotion of aviation-related and educational initiatives across the region.
“This award is a tremendous honor for RFD and reflects the dedication of our entire team to provide safe, efficient, and reliable service to our passengers and community,” said Zack Oakley, Executive Director of RFD. “We are proud to play an essential role in Illinois’ aviation system and look forward to continuing to build on this success for both passenger and cargo operations.”
Clayton Stambaugh, Deputy Director of Aeronautics at IDOT, congratulated the airport, noting, “Regional airports like RFD play a vital role in the aviation system by offering additional travel options for passengers and facilitating cargo shipments. By delivering excellent service, RFD stands as a model for regional airports in Illinois and across the country.”
Over the past few years, RFD has experienced record-breaking passenger growth alongside an expanding flight network. In 2024, the airport served 262,432 travelers, its busiest year to date, enabling the return of popular seasonal services such as nonstop flights to Nashville, as well as the addition of new international routes to Cancún, Punta Cana, and Huatulco, Mexico, in partnership with ALG Vacations.
Strengthening connectivity further, RFD recently introduced American Airlines’ Landline service, offering travelers a seamless one-stop check-in and baggage transfer experience. The premium motorcoach service connects passengers directly from Rockford to Chicago O’Hare International Airport, providing access to over 150 destinations worldwide.
Beyond its passenger success, RFD remains a major force in the U.S. air cargo sector. The airport ranked 14th nationally in 2024 for landed cargo weight, handling more than 3.1 billion pounds, up from its previous No. 15 position. This continued growth is supported by key partnerships with UPS, Amazon Air, and Maersk Air Cargo, underscoring the airport’s importance as a Midwest logistics hub.
With its dual focus on passenger and cargo operations, the Chicago Rockford International Airport continues to serve as a vital engine of economic activity for northern Illinois — combining operational excellence, connectivity, and community impact in one of America’s most dynamic regional aviation markets.
