Baton Rouge Metro Airport aims to reach pre-pandemic passenger levels by year’s end

BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) — New data released Friday shows passenger volume continues to increase at Baton Rouge Metro Airport (BTR).

Metro airport officials reported a total of 57,057 passengers traveled through BTR in July, citing a 1.3% increase compared to July 2021. Data showed the year-to-date passenger count through last month is up 24.6% at 365,901.

BTR officials said the airport anticipates growth in passenger numbers for the rest of the year as data shows an 18% increase in seating capacity. Flights were added by American Airlines for LSU Football fans who will be traveling to and from games this fall.

“We anticipate reaching about 85% of our pre-pandemic 2019 passenger volume by the end of this year,” said BTR Director of Aviation Mike Edwards. “We thank our passengers for making this happen.”

Up to $1.1 billion in economic output comes from the metro airport, BTR officials said. In July, Congressman Troy Carter announced that $5.2 million from the Federal Aviation Administration will be going to BTR to replace two passenger boarding bridges, improve customer services, and more.

Passengers are currently not required to wear a face mask at the airport. For more information about the Baton Rouge Metro Airport, visit flybtr.com.