Columbia Regional Airport identified as fastest growing airport in US

(COLUMBIA, MO)- Following a record-breaking 2025, Columbia Regional Airport (COU) has been named the fastest-growing airport in the United States in 2026 according to an analysis by aviation firm Mead & Hunt.

Mead & Hunt, an industry-leading aviation planning, design and development firm, analyzed all U.S. airports with 10,000 or more seats per month for the next six months, and COU was identified as the fastest growing airport in the U.S. with a 107% increase in seats.

"COU's growth reflects the strength of our community and the increasing demand for convenient, reliable air service close to home," said Michael Parks, manager of Columbia Regional Airport. "We're committed to building on this momentum by enhancing the passenger experience and expanding the opportunities available to travelers across Mid-Missouri."

To support this rapid growth, the Columbia City Council has approved a series of targeted infrastructure improvements designed to enhance the overall passenger experience and accommodate increasing demand. The plan includes the addition of approximately 600 new parking spaces at the south of the terminal, along with necessary grading, erosion control and improved access points to ease congestion and streamline circulation. These new spaces will be ready for the busy summer travel season. Additional parking expansion is also underway north of the terminal.

The City is advancing planning and community engagement efforts for future terminal enhancements, including the addition of a kitchen and restaurant concept and improvements to terminal access roads. Together, these investments are aimed at creating a more seamless, comfortable and convenient experience for travelers while positioning COU for continued growth.

Columbia Regional Airport's ongoing momentum is driven by a combination of record demand, expanded airline service and strengthened connectivity through major hubs. Some of the major highlights from COU in 2025 and 2026 include:

• Airport welcomed a record-breaking 242,167 passengers in 2025, representing a 17 percent increase compared to the previous year
• United Airlines returned in 2025 with daily nonstop flights to Chicago O'Hare International Airport and Denver International Airport
• American Airlines will launch new daily nonstop service to Charlotte Douglas International Airport starting May 21, 2026, offering one-stop access to 180+ destinations
• Allegiant began offering leisure options with new nonstop service to Orlando/Sanford and Destin-Fort Walton Beach beginning June 3, 2026
• American Airlines increased total seat capacity at COU by an average of 26% during peak seasons
• Seats to Chicago O'Hare increased by 62%, improving schedule flexibility and connectivity through a major hub

About Columbia Regional Airport (COU)

Columbia Regional Airport (COU) connects Mid-Missouri travelers to the world with convenient, nonstop service. Passengers can fly Allegiant to Destin-Fort Walt Beach (VPS) and Orlando (SFB), American Airlines nonstop to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), Chicago O'Hare (ORD) and Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), as well as United Airlines nonstop to Chicago O'Hare (ORD) and Denver (DEN). For more information about flights, parking and amenities, visit FlyCOU.com.

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Columbia is the best place for everyone to live, work, learn and play.

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To serve the public equitably through democratic, transparent and efficient government.