North Dakota airports hit one million boardings in 2012

Fargo, ND (WDAY TV) -- North Dakota airports passed a milestone in 2012 when more than one million passengers boarded flights.

Of the state's 8 commercial airports, Fargo had the most passengers, with just under 365-thousand. That was up about 15,000 from 2011.

Hector Internationals executive director credits the higher numbers to more available seats with several airlines.

Shawn Dobberstein, Hector Int. Aiports Exec. Dir. says, "Because of the robust economy, as well, we have people that have discretionary income, out going on family vacations. Late in the year, Frontier returned to our market in November, which has also stimulated our fare structure to a more conducive level for a lot of people to fly."

Airports in the oil patch, Dickinson and Williston, saw boardings increase by a third.

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