RFD Ranked as a Top Airport in Statewide Economic Impact Report

Rockford, IL – The recently released Illinois Aviation Economic Impact Study lists the Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) as having the third highest total economic outputs for commercial airports in the state. RFD ranked behind only Chicago’s O’Hare and Midway airports.

The 18-month long study, conducted by the Illinois Department of Transportation, examined the economic impacts of 116 public-use Illinois airports. According to the report, RFD annually generates nearly $1 billion in economic impact. It also found that activities at RFD support 5,384 jobs, with a total payroll of more than $224 million. Those individuals then generate an additional $994 million in our local economy.

"We recognize that we have a responsibility to be good stewards of taxpayer dollars and provide the highest return on investment. This responsibility is in the forefront of every decision we make at the airport. This study demonstrates that the airport is a good investment that is producing positive results for its region," said Greater Rockford Airport Authority Chairman Bharat Puri.

The airport’s benefits extend far beyond its runways. RFD’s economic impact can be traced to visitor spending at local restaurants, hotels and other businesses, which continues to circulate economic activity in the community. The report takes into account direct, indirect and induced economic benefits including air cargo, passengers, car rentals and hotel occupancy. It also looks at qualitative benefits of an airport such as its impact on safety, quality of life for area residents, and support of the U.S. military.

"This statewide aviation economic impact study highlights the positive boost airports have on their local communities, in their region, and to the State of Illinois. Airports create jobs, and jobs lead to opportunity. Illinois airports contribute $40.9 Billion to the State’s economy and are responsible for over 337,000 jobs in Illinois. The Chicago Rockford International Airport boasts world-class aviation facilities and is a cornerstone to the economy of Winnebago County and north central Illinois. The investments IDOT has made in RFD illustrate our commitment to the continued success of the airport, and highlight the partnership we have – and will continue to have – with RFD in the years ahead," said Dr. Susan Shea, Director of IDOT’s Division of Aeronautics.

"One of our major roles at the airport is to serve as a regional economic generator, and this study shows we are achieving this mission. It provides solid numerical values on the airport’s significant impact and benefit to the community," said RFD Director Mike Dunn. "We are very proud to be ranked among two of the busiest airports in the country. As RFD continues to grow, so will our impact on the local economy."

Additional details on the economic impact study are available at www.illinoisairportsmeanbusiness.com.

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