What was the passenger count at Blue Grass Airport in 2025?

Over 1.6 million travelers, marking a 2.7% increase from the previous record set in 2024.

Which airlines contributed to the record passenger numbers?

Delta Air Lines, Allegiant, and United Airlines played significant roles in achieving the record.

What infrastructure improvements are planned to accommodate the growth?

The airport is expanding parking facilities, including adding 815 long-term parking spaces and planning a terminal expansion within the next 10 years.

February 3, 2026

Blue Grass Airport Achieves Record Passenger Numbers

Lexington, Kentucky, February 3, 2026

Blue Grass Airport in Lexington, Kentucky has set a new record, welcoming over 1.6 million travelers in 2025. This marks a 2.7% increase from the previous year’s record, driven by year-round service to New York LaGuardia and new non-stop flights to Sarasota/Bradenton. Infrastructure improvements, including parking expansion and future terminal plans, are also underway to support this growth. The airport continues to serve as a vital hub for the region, highlighting its economic vitality and demand for air travel services.

Blue Grass Airport Achieves Record Passenger Numbers in 2025

Lexington, Kentucky – Blue Grass Airport (LEX) has set a new passenger record for the second consecutive year, welcoming over 1.6 million travelers in 2025. This milestone reflects a 2.7% increase from the previous record of 1,571,805 passengers set in 2024.

Key Factors Contributing to the Record

The significant growth in passenger numbers can be attributed to several key developments:

Year-Round Service to New York LaGuardia Airport: Delta Air Lines resumed daily flights to New York LaGuardia Airport in May 2025, marking the return of this service since early 2020.
New Non-Stop Flights to Sarasota/Bradenton International Airport: Allegiant introduced twice-weekly flights between Lexington and Sarasota/Bradenton International Airport in April 2025, offering passengers a new beach vacation option.
Expansion of Chicago Schedule: United Airlines added a fifth daily flight to Chicago, enhancing connectivity and providing passengers with more flexibility.

Infrastructure Enhancements to Support Growth

To accommodate the increasing passenger volume, Blue Grass Airport has initiated significant infrastructure improvements:

Parking Expansion: Construction began in May 2025 to add 815 long-term parking spaces, including a second covered walkway to the terminal and a new exit plaza with additional lanes for quicker departures.
Terminal Expansion Plans: The airport is planning to expand its terminal within the next 10 years to further enhance passenger experience and capacity.

Background Context

Blue Grass Airport serves as a vital transportation hub for central and eastern Kentucky, offering flights to various domestic and international destinations. The airport’s growth in passenger numbers underscores the region’s economic vitality and the increasing demand for air travel services.

FAQs

What was the passenger count at Blue Grass Airport in 2025?: Over 1.6 million travelers, marking a 2.7% increase from the previous record set in 2024.
Which airlines contributed to the record passenger numbers?: Delta Air Lines, Allegiant, and United Airlines played significant roles in achieving the record.
What infrastructure improvements are planned to accommodate the growth?: The airport is expanding parking facilities, including adding 815 long-term parking spaces and planning a terminal expansion within the next 10 years.