CAE reports increase in passengers

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More passengers are flying through Columbia, according to the latest report from the Columbia Metropolitan Airport.

CAE has seen a 5.3% increase in air traffic during the first two months of 2018 compared to last year. Nearly 166,000 total passengers used the airport in January and February compared to 157,000 in the same months in 2017.

Anthony Gilmer, air service and marketing manager, said the growth started in October as a result of more competitive airfares. “We’re happy to see that trend continue into 2018,” Gilmer said in a news release.

CAE has also increased airport capacity, or number of seats for sale, by 3.5% over the same time. Mike Gula, interim airport director, said the increase is attributable to airlines adding larger aircraft featuring more in-flight amenities such as first-class seating and wi-fi.

The airport said the majority of the increase in available seats comes from Delta, which continues to replace regional jets with larger aircraft on flights between Columbia and its Atlanta hub.

“Our airfares have certainly been improving, and it’s great to see people taking notice and opting to use our fast and friendly airport,” Gula said. “We’re happy to see the residents of the Midlands enjoying our improved flight options.”