Cherry Capital Airport Hits Record 935,816 Passengers, 19% Increase

A record 935,816 passengers traveled through Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) in 2025, marking a 19% increase over the airport's previous high and underscoring expanding air connectivity for Grand Traverse County. The airport announced the milestone on January 21, 2026, and framed the surge as evidence of TVC’s role as Northern Michigan’s gateway.

The 19% jump translates to roughly 149,400 additional passengers compared with the prior record year, which was about 786,400 travelers. Airport CEO Kevin Klein attributed the increase to expanded airline service in 2025, noting that TVC hosted seven carriers and offered 20 nonstop destinations that year. Those added routes and carriers increased options for local residents and visitors, reducing the need for long drives to larger hubs.

Beyond the headline numbers, the growth has direct local effects. More flights mean easier access for Grand Traverse County businesses that rely on incoming clients and suppliers, and broader route choices can shorten travel times for residents visiting family, seeking medical care, or flying for work. Increased passenger traffic typically supports ancillary sectors such as ground transportation, hospitality, and restaurants, which stand to benefit from higher visitor volumes during shoulder seasons as well as summer tourism peaks.

Operationally, handling nearly 936,000 passengers places new demands on airport facilities and local infrastructure. The airport has signaled plans to continue expanding connections and passenger services, a development city planners and county officials will monitor as they assess parking capacity, rental car availability, and public transit links to accommodate growth. Competition among seven carriers at TVC may also influence fare dynamics and scheduling flexibility for travelers from Traverse City and surrounding townships.

For the community, the milestone provides both affirmation and a planning cue. Local leaders can use the passenger gains to argue for targeted investments in roads, transit, and lodging that capture additional economic returns. For residents, the expanded network increases convenience and can lower the opportunity cost of travel for business and leisure.

Cherry Capital Airport’s 2025 performance signals a sustained recovery and expansion in air service for Northern Michigan. As TVC pursues more routes and enhanced passenger services, Grand Traverse County should see continued benefits from improved connectivity, while local officials and businesses prepare for the operational and economic shifts that higher passenger volumes bring.