Springfield-Branson Airport Looking Good in 2010 - Story Written by Jay Scherder, KY3 News

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- The economy has grounded many Midwest airports but the hub in Springfield has been the only one to show any growth. Not only did Springfield-Branson National Airport see a 4-percent growth in passenger numbers from 2008 to 2009, but officials also are optimistic about 2010 as well. So far, numbers of passengers arriving and departing in Springfield in January and February combined are up 5 percent from last year. The numbers for March aren't out just yet but officials with the airport expect the trend to continue. Some other exciting news is Allegiant Airlines will have more flights than ever this summer. Two years ago, Allegiant had 50 flights out of Springfield in July. This year, it's planning on more than 100. Meanwhile, Delta Airlines, which pulled flights out of Springfield because of the recession, announced flights will be restored to Detroit and Minneapolis. The Minneapolis flights will most likely be on a seasonal basis. Other airports across the Midwest took a hit from 2008-2009. Chicago O'Hare had 9-percent fewer passengers during the time period. St. Louiswas down 11 percent and Tulsa was down 11.5 percent. Omaha, Neb., fared better than most but still took a 3.5-percent hit.