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Spokane International Airport
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Spokane International Airport (IATA: GEG, ICAO: KGEG, FAA LID: GEG) is a commercial airport in Spokane, Washington, United States, located approximately 7 miles (11 km) west-southwest of Downtown Spokane. It is the primary airport serving the Inland Northwest, which consists of 30 counties and includes areas such as Spokane, the Tri-Cities, both in Eastern Washington, and Coeur d'Alene in North Idaho. The airport's code, GEG, is derived from its former name, Geiger Field, which honored Major Harold Geiger (1884–1927).
Key Information
As of 2023, Spokane International Airport (GEG) ranks as the 73rd-busiest airport in the United States in terms of passenger enplanements.[3] At 4,264,875 total passengers served in 2024, it is the second busiest airport in Washington. GEG is served by seven airlines with non-stop service to more than 20 destinations in the continental US.[4]
It is included in the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems for 2017–2021, in which it is categorized as a small-hub primary commercial service facility.[5]
Excluding military airfields, general aviation, and cargo airports, GEG Airport, at 6,140 acres (9.6 sq mi; 24.8 km2), is the largest commercial/public airport in all of Washington state in terms of land area.[1][6]
History
[edit]

Known as Sunset Field before 1941, it was purchased from the county by the War Department and renamed Geiger Field (hence the IATA code GEG) after Major Harold Geiger, an Army aviation pioneer who died in a crash in 1927.
During World War II, Geiger Field was a major training base by Second Air Force as a group training airfield for B-17 Flying Fortress heavy bombardment units, with new aircraft being obtained from Boeing near Seattle. It was also used by Air Technical Service Command as an aircraft maintenance and supply depot; Deer Park Airport and Felts Field were auxiliaries.
In 1943, General Hap Arnold established the first formal fire protection training course at Geiger Field, Washington. It was used until 1946.
Geiger Field was served by a rail connection to the Great Northern Railway.[7]
Geiger was closed in late 1945 and turned over to War Assets Administration (WAA), then transferred to Spokane County and developed into a commercial airport. The airport hosted USAF Air Defense Command interceptor units during the Cold War for air defense of Hanford Nuclear Reservation and Grand Coulee Dam. Built in 1942 as the Spokane Air Depot, Fairchild Air Force Base is four miles (6 km) to the west.
It became Spokane's municipal airport in 1946, replacing Felts Field, and received its present name in 1960, after the City of Spokane was allotted Spokane Geiger Field by the Surplus Property Act and Air Canada started service to Calgary.[8] In November 1972, the 4702d Defense Wing moved to the airfield. It was still used by the Air Force into the early 1960s, with the 84th Fighter Group operating Convair F-106 Delta Dart interceptors.[9][10] The airport code is still GEG, for Geiger Field.
The current Concourse A and B complex opened in 1965, designed by Warren C. Heylman and William Trogdon.[11][12]
Expansion from the 1970s
[edit]A second level was added to Concourse A and Concourse B in 1974.[13]
The airport has a Master Plan,[14] which includes a third runway and gates added to Concourse C.
A new control tower has been built south of the airport, replacing the one near Concourse C. The new control tower is the tallest one in the State. The Terminal, Rotunda, and Concourse C Enhancement Project (TRACE) was recently completed, designed by Bernardo/Wills Architects, P.C.[15] The project, which concluded in November 2006, added retail space and expanded security checkpoints in the airport's three concourses, and gave the Rotunda an aesthetic renovation. In 2010, 2000 feet was added to Runway 3–21 and parallel taxiways 'A' and 'G', enabling heavier aircraft departures in summer months.
By 2023, the airport plans to add new gates, centralized security and expanded baggage claim space as it looks to add more direct flights, including to the east coast, to capitalize on and accommodate growing passenger and cargo traffic; the Spokane market has been hosting big events and attracting business to the area.[16][17]
Terminal renovation and expansion (TREX) program
[edit]On October 20, 2022, the airport broke ground on the first phase of the project which includes expansion of Concourse C. The $150 million addition will add 144,000 square feet, 6 new gates and modernization of the existing terminal.[18] The first portion of the expanded concourse, which includes three gates at the west end, opened in June 2024. The remainder of the project is planned to begin construction in late 2024 and be completed the following year.[19][20]
The second phase of the TREX program is focused on creating a centralized TSA screening checkpoint and baggage claim, as well as an improved operations center. This central connection will also allow easier navigation between the A/B and C concourses.[18] As of January 2023, the 145,000 square foot Central Hall is estimated to cost $179 million and has a planned construction timeline of 2025 to 2027.[21] Other projects planned in the TREX program include relocation of the rental car facilities, and renovation of the A/B concourse.[18]
The airport received $6.5 million from the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help fund the project.[22]
Facilities
[edit]Airfield
[edit]The airport covers 6,140 acres (2,480 ha) and operates two paved runways:[1][23]
- Runway 3/21: 11,002 ft × 150 ft (3,353 m × 46 m), asphalt/concrete
- Runway 8/26: 8,199 ft × 150 ft (2,499 m × 46 m), asphalt
Tower
[edit]It is believed that the tower is the only federally-run air traffic control tower named for any single person. That honor was bestowed in 2010 on Ray Daves, the World War II radioman who survived Pearl Harbor and Midway and went on to serve as an air traffic controller in Spokane after the war until the 1970s.[24][25]
Terminals
[edit]
The passenger terminal facility at Spokane International Airport has three main structures; Concourse A and B in the center, Concourse C to the southwest, and the Ground Transportation Center to the north. The three structures are immediately adjacent and connected, however the two concourse structures are not linked with an airside connector on the sterile side; as such, connecting passengers need to transit between Concourse A-B and Concourse C through the landside, non-sterile circulation.
Concourse A/B
[edit]
The 1965 Concourse A/B complex includes the two concourses linked by a central rotunda area with dining and shopping vendors. The 37,000 sq ft (3,400 m2) rotunda is supported entirely along its perimeter and features no obstructions.[26] Concourse A houses 5 gates (11-15), while Concourse B houses 8 gates (1–8).
The Concourse A-B complex originally opened on April 1, 1965, and was designed by Warren C. Heylman and William Trogdon.[27] The new terminal cost a reported US$4,600,000 (equivalent to $45,900,000 in 2024) and was dedicated on May 8, 1965,[28] in a ceremony attended by Senator Warren Magnuson and Civil Aeronautics Board chair Alan Boyd.[26] Designed in the Neo-Expressionism style, the building's architecture prominently features exposed concrete as well as distinct sculpted and monolithic architectural shapes and forms.
As the airport has continued to incrementally expand, some of the original architectural intent of the Concourse A-B complex has been lost. While several expansions to the concourse extended the building's original architectural style, other additions have altered it. In 1974, a second floor was added to both Concourses A and B to allow for the implementation of passenger boarding bridge access to aircraft. The new floors, while sharing some material commonality with the original Heylman and Trogdon concourse, lacked the same curvy and sculpted neo-expressionistic forms. The later additions of the ground transportation facility and Concourse C to the ends of the concourse building further altered the architecture by replacing its distinct bookend elevations and entrances with corridors to the adjacent buildings. Interior renovations in the mid-2000s also replaced many of Concourse A-B complex's original sculpted forms and monolithic materials with more rectilinear forms and contemporary finish materials. Despite this, many of the original architectural elements remain integral to the space (such as the exposed concrete roof trusses and concrete columns), creating a juxtaposition between the newer elements and the original architecture.
Under the proposed Terminal Renovation and Expansion (TREX) program to accommodate projected growth, the separate baggage claim areas in Concourse A-B and Concourse C would be consolidated into a single baggage claim with five carousels, and A-B would receive a renovation. Ultimately, operations at A-B would wind down under long-term plans to construct a new terminal in 2030, at the earliest.[29]
Southwest Airlines is the current primary occupant operating in and out of Concourse A. Delta and United Airlines both operate in and out of Concourse B. American Airlines operated in and out of Concourse B before relocating to Concourse C in March 2016.
Concourse C
[edit]
Concourse C houses 9 gates, both upper (30-32) and lower (21a, 21b, 22-26). The lower level gates house regional turboprop aircraft, while the upper-level gates house narrow-body aircraft. The current iteration of Concourse C opened in 2000 after a $20 million redevelopment and expansion project, designed by Bernardo-Wills Architects.[30] The project, which broke ground in 1998 added 80,000 square feet (7,400 m2) to the concourse including a new baggage claim and two-story passenger facility. The 11,000-square-foot (1,000 m2) concourse was remodeled into service and operations functions.[31] The new Concourse C has a more contemporary architectural style, contrasting the appearance of the Concourse A and B complex, by employing a large use of metal cladding and large curtain window walls on its exterior building envelope. However, it draws inspiration from its neo-expressionist neighbor by architecturally expressing a modular, repetitive, and exposed structural grid through its façade and interior lobby areas.
Alaska Airlines and its subsidiary carrier Horizon Air were the primary occupants operating in and out of Concourse C after Frontier Airlines ceased operations to Spokane in January 2015.[32] However, that changed once American Airlines relocated to Concourse C in March 2016. Alaska and American operate in and out of the upper-level gates, while Horizon operates in and out of the lower level gates.
In October 2022, the airport broke ground on Phase 1 of the Terminal Renovation and Expansion (TREX) program which includes expansion of Concourse C. The concourse is currently under construction and expected to reopen in late 2025.[18][20]
Airlines and destinations
[edit]Passenger
[edit]| Airlines | Destinations |
|---|---|
| Alaska Airlines | Boise, Los Angeles, Orange County (begins January 7, 2026),[33] Portland (OR), San Diego, San Francisco,[34] Seattle/Tacoma |
| Allegiant Air | Las Vegas,[35] Los Angeles,[36] Phoenix/Mesa |
| American Airlines | Chicago–O'Hare,[37][38] Dallas/Fort Worth, Phoenix–Sky Harbor |
| Delta Air Lines | Atlanta, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Salt Lake City, Seattle/Tacoma |
| Delta Connection | Los Angeles, Salt Lake City, Seattle/Tacoma |
| Frontier Airlines | Denver,[39] Phoenix–Sky Harbor (begins November 23, 2025)[40] |
| Southwest Airlines | Denver, Las Vegas, Oakland, Phoenix–Sky Harbor, Sacramento, San Jose (CA) Seasonal: Chicago–Midway,[41] Dallas–Love,[42] San Diego (resumes March 7, 2026)[43] |
| Sun Country Airlines | Seasonal: Minneapolis/St. Paul[citation needed] |
| United Airlines | Denver Seasonal: Chicago–O'Hare |
| United Express | Denver, San Francisco Seasonal: Chicago–O'Hare |
| Destinations map |
|---|
Cargo
[edit]| Airlines | Destinations |
|---|---|
| AirPac Airlines[44] | Ellensburg, Grangeville, Lewiston, Seattle–Boeing |
| Amazon Air | Lakeland |
| Ameriflight | Ephrata, Lewiston, Portland (OR), Seattle–Boeing, Seattle/Tacoma, Tri-Cities (WA), Wenatchee, Yakima |
| FedEx Express | Indianapolis, La Grande, Lewiston, Memphis, Moses Lake, Pendleton, Tri-Cities (WA), Wenatchee, Yakima |
| UPS Airlines | Dallas/Fort Worth, Des Moines, Louisville, Ontario, Portland (OR), Seattle–Boeing, Vancouver |
| Western Air Express | Boise, Portland (OR) |
Statistics
[edit]Top destinations
[edit]| Rank | City | Passengers | Carriers |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 525,000 | Alaska, Delta | |
| 2 | 245,460 | Southwest, United | |
| 3 | 165,740 | Delta | |
| 4 | 147,500 | American, Southwest | |
| 5 | 125,120 | Delta, Sun Country | |
| 6 | 100,540 | American | |
| 7 | 97,880 | Allegiant, Southwest | |
| 8 | 96,620 | Alaska | |
| 9 | 73,370 | Southwest | |
| 10 | 72,970 | Alaska, Delta |
Airline market share
[edit]| Rank | Airline | Passengers | Share |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Southwest Airlines | 946,000 | 23.09% |
| 2 | Delta Air Lines | 731,000 | 17.84% |
| 3 | SkyWest Airlines | 680,000 | 16.58% |
| 4 | Alaska Airlines | 592,000 | 14.45% |
| 5 | Horizon Air | 441,000 | 10.77% |
| Other | 707,000 | 17.26% |
Annual traffic
[edit]Annual passenger traffic as reported by the Spokane International Airport (GEG).[46]
View source data.
| Year | Passengers | Year | Passengers | Year | Passengers | Year | Passengers | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1990 | 1,619,880 | 2000 | 3,068,890 | 2010 | 3,176,204 | 2020 | 1,926,159 | |||
| 1991 | 1,589,123 | 2001 | 2,880,186 | 2011 | 3,076,554 | 2021 | 3,280,062 | |||
| 1992 | 1,855,954 | 2002 | 2,745,788 | 2012 | 3,005,664 | 2022 | 3,920,972 | |||
| 1993 | 2,329,953 | 2003 | 2,789,505 | 2013 | 2,926,858 | 2023 | 4,131,266 | |||
| 1994 | 2,687,482 | 2004 | 3,059,069 | 2014 | 2,986,652 | 2024 | 4,264,875 | |||
| 1995 | 2,988,575 | 2005 | 3,197,440 | 2015 | 3,133,342 | 2025 | ||||
| 1996 | 3,258,762 | 2006 | 3,224,423 | 2016 | 3,234,095 | 2026 | ||||
| 1997 | 3,043,238 | 2007 | 3,471,901 | 2017 | 3,550,912 | 2027 | ||||
| 1998 | 2,949,833 | 2008 | 3,423,500 | 2018 | 3,998,272 | 2028 | ||||
| 1999 | 3,041,626 | 2009 | 3,055,081 | 2019 | 4,036,920 | 2029 |
Ground transportation
[edit]Spokane Transit operates four stops at Spokane International Airport, with bus routes 60 and 63. The airport is also served by the WSDOT's Travel Washington Gold Line, Northwestern Trailways, Wheatland Express, Queen City Shuttle, and Special Mobility Service.
A consolidated rental car facility is located adjacent to the Ground Transportation Center on the north end of the main terminal. The consolidated facility opened in November 2008, replacing several satellite operations, and is intended to meet passenger growth at the airport for 20 years after its opening.[49]
Accidents and incidents
[edit]- On March 10, 1961, a U.S. Air Force F-106 Delta Dart crashed three miles (5 km) west of Medical Lake while attempting to return to Geiger Field, killing its pilot.[50]
- Six months later on September 14, 1961, a USAF F-106 crashed on approach to Geiger Field, killing its pilot.[51][52]
- On February 18, 1972, a Beechcraft Model 99A, Cascade Airways Flight 325, operating Seattle-Walla Walla-Pullman-Spokane, crashed in fog at 9:42 pm PST during its instrument approach to Spokane International Airport, and came to rest in a muddy field less than two miles (3 km) southwest of the runway. Two passengers and two crew were aboard, and all survived with minor injuries. The pilot walked from the crash site to a nearby service station to report it.[53] The crash site was about 200 yards (180 m) from the Medical Lake exit (#272) of Interstate 90 and the landing gear of the plane was extended.[54] Due to fog, the flight had stopped in Pasco rather than Walla Walla.[53][55]
- On January 20, 1981, a Beechcraft Model 99A, Cascade Airways Flight 201, crashed into a hill 4.5 miles (7 km) from the runway. The accident was caused by an incorrect distance measuring equipment frequency and premature descent to minimum descent altitude. Of the nine on board, seven were killed (including both pilots), and the surviving two passengers were seriously injured. The airline ceased operations about five years later.[56][57]
- On March 18, 1994, a Douglas DC-3C of Salair crashed shortly after take-off on a cargo flight to Portland, killing both pilots. The starboard engine failed shortly after take-off; it had previously been in long-term storage and had been overhauled the previous year and fitted to the aircraft on February 21, replacing an engine that developed a misfire and loss of power. It had accumulated 15 hours flight time at the time of the accident. The aircraft was destroyed in the subsequent fire.[58][59][60][61][62]
- On January 4, 1996, a Convair CV-440, operated by Salair on a positioning flight, lost power in both engines at 500 feet on an ILS approach to runway 3 due to fuel starvation and false fuel readings and darkness. The plane performed a forced landing, struck a berm in a field and was substantially damaged. Both occupants survived, but the aircraft was written off.[63]
See also
[edit]References
[edit]
This article incorporates public domain material from the Air Force Historical Research Agency
- ^ a b c FAA Airport Form 5010 for GEG PDF, effective February 20, 2025.
- ^ "Spokane Intl Airport Data for 2024" (PDF). business.spokaneairports.net. Retrieved February 21, 2025.
- ^ "Calendar Year 2015 Passenger Boardings at Commercial Service Airports" (PDF). Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Retrieved May 13, 2025.
- ^ "Map of Nonstop Flights from GEG to Cities in the United States". spokaneairports.net. Retrieved February 22, 2025.
- ^ "List of NPIAS Airports" (PDF). FAA.gov. Federal Aviation Administration. Retrieved April 29, 2017.
- ^ "List of Airports In Washington State". SkyVector.com. Retrieved February 16, 2025.
- ^ Staff, "Align Rail Route To Air Depot", The Spokesman-Review, Spokane, Washington, Wednesday 13 May 1942, Volume 59. Number 364, page 6.
- ^ "Spokane Intl Airport – Home".; "Then and Now: Spokane International Airport | The Spokesman-Review".
- ^ "Geiger's fast interceptors protecting area and nation". Spokesman-Review. January 6, 1963. p. 6.
- ^ "Air guard's use of Geiger limited". Spokane Daily Chronicle. June 21, 1963. p. 1.
- ^ "Airport beams near completion". Spokesman-Review. March 30, 1964. p. 6.
- ^ "Historic Preservation: Mid-Century Modern Architecture".
- ^ "Terminal Roof Bid Accepted". The Spokesman-Review. August 25, 1977. p. 7. Retrieved January 22, 2015.
- ^ "Spokane Intl Airport – Home".
- ^ "Spokane Intl Airport – Home".
- ^ Prager, Mike (March 19, 2017). "New flights boosting travel options at Spokane airport". The Spokesman-Review. Retrieved February 22, 2020.
- ^ Edelen, Amy (August 24, 2019). "Spokane International Airport board considering scaled-down terminal expansion plan". The Spokesman-Review. Retrieved February 22, 2020.
- ^ a b c d Edelen, Amy (October 20, 2022). "Spokane International Airport breaks ground on first phase of $150 million terminal expansion project". The Spokesman-Review. Retrieved May 17, 2023.
- ^ Gibson, Nick (May 31, 2024). "'You are in for a treat': Spokane International Airport unveils newly constructed concourse". The Spokesman-Review. Retrieved June 18, 2024.
- ^ a b Harris, Dylan (March 30, 2023). "Spokane International Airport's TREX project is off to smooth start". Spokane Journal of Business. Retrieved May 17, 2023.
- ^ "Spokane Airport Application for Project Approval for GC/CM and Alternative Subcontractor Selection" (PDF). Washington State Department of Enterprise Services. January 27, 2023. Retrieved May 17, 2023.
- ^ Rattner, Mark (May 8, 2025). "Spokane and Tri-Cities airports receive millions for terminal upgrades". NonStop Local KHQ. Retrieved July 1, 2025.
- ^ "GEG airport data at skyvector.com". skyvector.com. FAA data effective January 23, 2025.
- ^ Front Porch: Fond memories of Ray Daves endure by Cindy Hval in The Spokesman-Review, June 16, 2011
- ^ Radioman: An Eyewitness Account of Pearl Harbor and World War II in the Pacific, a memoir by Ray Daves, as told to Carol Edgemon Hipperson (excerpt Archived October 31, 2020, at the Wayback Machine)
- ^ a b "New Airport Dedication Will Feature Alan Boyd". Cheney Free Press. April 9, 1965. Retrieved August 19, 2017.
- ^ Deshais, Nicholas (July 10, 2016). "Warren Heylman's architectural vision 'all over' Spokane". The Spokesman-Review. Retrieved August 19, 2017.
- ^ "New Terminal for Airport Opens Today". The Spokesman-Review. April 1, 1965. Retrieved August 19, 2017.
- ^ Prager, Mike (July 19, 2017). "Spokane Airport eyeing major improvements". The Spokesman-Review. Retrieved August 19, 2017.
- ^ "Concourse C Addition & Remodel, Spokane International Airport". Bernardo-Wills Architects. Retrieved August 19, 2017.
- ^ Cain, Chad (April 9, 1998). "Airport projects set to take off". Spokane Journal of Business. Retrieved January 15, 2016.
- ^ "Frontier Airlines ending service at Spokane International Airport". Spokesman Review. Retrieved March 30, 2016.
- ^ "Alaska Airline NW25 Network Expansion". Aeroroutes. Retrieved August 1, 2025.
- ^ "View Our Airline Flight Schedules & Flight Times - Alaska Airlines".
- ^ "Allegiant announces new nonstop service from Spokane to Las Vegas". Business Insider. November 17, 2020. Retrieved November 17, 2020.
- ^ "Allegiant Ties Record for Largest Expansion in Company History with 44 New Nonstop Routes, plus 3 New Cities". Retrieved November 19, 2024.
- ^ "Spokane International Airport adds Chicago flight". The Spokesman-Review. Retrieved December 16, 2024.
- ^ Liu, Jim (March 10, 2025). "American Airlines NS25 Domestic Network Additions – 09MAR25". aeroroutes.com. Aeroroutes. Retrieved March 10, 2025.
- ^ "Frontier Airlines coming to Spokane Airport with direct Denver flight". kxly. February 18, 2025. Retrieved February 18, 2025.
- ^ "Frontier Airlines NW25 Further Network Expansion". Aeroroutes. Retrieved September 6, 2025.
- ^ Liu, Jim (November 5, 2024). "Southwest Airlines June 2025 Network Additions". Aeroroutes. Retrieved November 5, 2024.
- ^ "Southwest Airlines Extends Flight Schedule With New International Options And Most-Ever Departures". Southwest Airlines (Press release). October 26, 2023. Archived from the original on October 31, 2023. Retrieved October 26, 2023.
- ^ "Southwest Adds New City, 17 Routes | AirlineGeeks.com". AirlineGeeks.com |. August 14, 2025. Retrieved August 14, 2025.
- ^ AirPac Airlines
- ^ "RITA - BTS - Transtats". Bureau of Transportation Statistics. Retrieved November 22, 2023.
- ^ "Historic Passenger & Cargo Data" (PDF). Spokane Airport. Retrieved October 10, 2025.
- ^ "Spokane Intl Airport – Passenger Data".
- ^ Historic Passenger & Cargo Data. Retrieved on February 20, 2025.
- ^ Prager, Mike (November 12, 2008). "Car rental a short walk away". The Spokesman-Review. Retrieved January 14, 2016.
- ^ "Geiger Field pilot is killed in jet crash". Spokesman-Review. March 11, 1961. p. 1.
- ^ "Crash kills Geiger pilot". Spokane Daily Chronicle. September 14, 1961. p. 1.
- ^ "Power loss blamed in jet crash". Spokesman-Review. September 15, 1961. p. 1.
- ^ a b "4 escape crash". Spokane Daily Chronicle. February 19, 1972. p. 1.
- ^ Burnett, Tom (February 19, 1972). "Crash landing injures 4". Spokesman-Review. p. 1.
- ^ "Accident description for N21FW at NTSB.gov". ntsb.gov. Retrieved February 23, 2025.
- ^ "Archived copy" (PDF). Archived from the original on December 1, 2010. Retrieved July 12, 2010.
{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link) - ^ "Archived copy" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on July 8, 2011. Retrieved July 12, 2010.
{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link) - ^ "N3433Y Accident description". Aviation Safety Network. Retrieved June 25, 2010.
- ^ "SEA94FA085". National Transportation Safety Board. Retrieved June 28, 2010.
- ^ Harris, Bonnie; Hansen, Dan (March 19, 1994). "Plane burst into flames on impact". Spokesman-Review. p. A6.
- ^ Wiley, John K. (March 19, 1994). "Two killed in crash of cargo plane at Spokane". Lewiston Morning Tribune. Associated Press. p. 6A.
- ^ Harris, Bonnie (March 20, 1994). "Plane hadn't yet turned back to airport". Spokesman-Review. p. B1.
- ^ Accident description for N358SA at the Aviation Safety Network. Retrieved on February 17, 2023.
External links
[edit]Wikimedia Commons has media related to Spokane International Airport.
- Spokane International Airport, official site
- Spokane International Airport at WSDOT Aviation
- FAA Airport Diagram (PDF), effective October 30, 2025
- FAA Terminal Procedures for GEG, effective October 30, 2025
- Resources for this airport:
- AirNav airport information for KGEG
- ASN accident history for GEG
- FlightAware airport information and live flight tracker
- NOAA/NWS weather observations: current, past three days
- SkyVector aeronautical chart for KGEG
- FAA current GEG delay information
Spokane International Airport
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
Spokane International Airport (IATA: GEG, ICAO: KGEG), commonly known as Geiger Field in its early years, is a joint civil-military commercial airport serving the Inland Northwest region of the United States.[1][2] Located approximately 7 miles (11 km) west-southwest of downtown Spokane, Washington, it spans 6,000 acres and is the second-largest airport in the state by passenger volume.[3][4] Jointly owned and operated by the City of Spokane and Spokane County since 1946, the airport is self-sustaining through fees, leases, and concessions, with an annual operating and capital budget of about $216 million (2025).[4][5][2]
Originally established as a U.S. Army airfield known as Sunset Field in 1940, it was renamed Geiger Field in 1941 to honor aviation pioneer Major Harold Geiger and served as a key training and maintenance base during World War II.[2] After the war, it transitioned to civilian use, with the first commercial flights by United and Northwest Airlines commencing in 1946; it briefly reverted to military operations as Geiger Air Force Base during the Cold War from 1953 to 1963.[2] Renamed Spokane International Airport in 1960 to reflect growing international service, including Air Canada flights, a new $4.6 million terminal opened in 1965, followed by major expansions such as Concourse C in 2000, parking structures in 1979 and 2001, a rental car facility in 2007, a new control tower in 2010, and a 2,000-foot runway extension that year.[2][4]
Designated a small hub by the Federal Aviation Administration, the airport handled 4.26 million passengers and 67,300 tons of U.S. air cargo in 2024, supporting over 3,000 direct jobs and generating an annual economic impact of $3 billion for the Spokane region.[4][6] It features two runways, a single terminal with three concourses (A, B, and C), and is served by eight passenger airlines—Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Sun Country Airlines, and United Airlines—along with cargo carriers FedEx and UPS, providing non-stop flights to over 20 destinations.[4][7][8] As a vital gateway to the Pacific Northwest, it connects the area to major U.S. hubs and supports regional economic growth through its associated business park and Foreign-Trade Zone #224.[4]
Some carriers, such as United and Delta, also overlap with limited cargo operations through partners like UPS, but passenger services remain the core focus.[7]
Source: Spokane International Airport monthly reports[51]
Looking ahead, passenger traffic in 2025 is projected to exceed 4.5 million annually, bolstered by the Terminal Renovation and Expansion (TREX) project enhancements and a 15% increase in booked seats compared to 2024.[54] As of August 2025, year-to-date volumes stood at 2,928,357 total passengers, on pace for continued expansion.[46]
Seasonal variations influence route performance, particularly for sunbelt destinations; Salt Lake City (SLC) and Phoenix (PHX) see peaks in winter months, with passenger loads increasing by up to 25% from November to March due to ski travel and warm-weather escapes. These routes often operate with higher frequencies during holiday periods, complementing year-round service.[55]
Post-2023, domestic leisure routes from GEG experienced 15% year-over-year growth, fueled by expanded low-cost carrier schedules and recovering tourism demand, though overall airport traffic rose more modestly at 3.2% to 4.26 million total passengers. This trend aligns with broader U.S. patterns of increased short-haul vacation travel, positioning GEG for continued expansion in seasonal markets.[56][57]
Market shares are determined based on enplaned passengers reported by airlines, reflecting the competitive landscape shaped by passenger volumes at the airport.[51] As of August 2025, year-to-date enplanements totaled 1,456,698, with Alaska leading at 466,752 (32.1%), followed by Delta at 380,751 (26.1%) and Southwest at 325,853 (22.4%).[46]
The entry of Southwest Airlines in the mid-1990s introduced significant low-cost competition to the market previously dominated by legacy carriers like Alaska and Delta, contributing to expanded route options and downward pressure on fares. More recently, Allegiant Air's growth since launching service around 2020 has further emphasized leisure-focused, low-cost operations, targeting seasonal demand to sunbelt destinations.[58] Together, low-cost carriers now represent over 25% of the market, up from negligible shares prior to deregulation.[51]
These dynamics trace back to the broader impacts of the Airline Deregulation Act of 1978, which dismantled federal price and route controls, fostering increased entry by low-cost airlines and intensifying competition across U.S. airports including Spokane.[59] The act enabled carriers like Southwest to challenge incumbents, resulting in lower average fares and higher passenger volumes over time, though it also led to market concentration among a few dominant players at regional hubs.[60]
History
Origins and early development
Spokane International Airport traces its origins to 1938, when Spokane County acquired approximately 1,280 acres of land on the West Plains, about nine miles southwest of downtown Spokane, to establish a modern commercial airfield amid growing regional aviation needs. The site, selected for its favorable weather conditions and expansive terrain suitable for all-weather operations, was named Sunset Field after its proximity to the Sunset Highway. This development addressed limitations at the older Felts Field, which struggled with fog and space constraints for larger aircraft. The county's initiative reflected broader efforts to boost economic activity during the Great Depression by creating a "super-airport" capable of supporting municipal aviation growth.[2][9] Construction commenced in October 1940, funded in part by the Works Progress Administration (WPA), which provided labor and resources as part of New Deal programs to combat unemployment. Initial infrastructure included graded runways, basic hangars, and support facilities designed to accommodate commercial and general aviation activities, such as flight training and potential air mail services. Although operational for only a brief period, Sunset Field represented Spokane's ambition to modernize its aviation infrastructure, with plans for a one-square-mile landing area buffered by additional land to ensure safety and expansion potential.[2][10] On June 25, 1941, less than a year after groundbreaking, the U.S. War Department purchased the property from Spokane County for a nominal fee of one dollar, immediately renaming it Geiger Field in tribute to Major Harold C. Geiger, a pioneering U.S. Army aviator and advocate for military aviation who perished in a 1927 crash. This acquisition shifted the airfield's focus toward national defense priorities, curtailing its nascent civilian role and paving the way for military development.[2][11]World War II and military use
In 1941, amid escalating tensions leading to U.S. entry into World War II, the War Department acquired the civilian Sunset Field from Spokane County on June 25 and converted it into a military installation, renaming it Geiger Field in honor of Major Harold C. Geiger, an Army aviation pioneer who died in a 1927 crash.[2] This transformation marked the site's shift from limited commercial operations to a vital Army Air Forces training hub under the Second Air Force, focusing on preparing crews for heavy bombardment missions.[2] Construction began as early as October 1940 in anticipation of the purchase, expanding the airfield to include a one-square-mile landing area surrounded by additional buffer zones for safe operations, along with new hangars, maintenance depots, and support infrastructure.[2] Geiger Field served as a primary group training airfield for Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress heavy bombers, where over 6,000 pilots and crew members underwent intensive combat preparation, including formation flying, navigation, and gunnery exercises, contributing to the readiness of multiple bombardment groups deployed to Europe and the Pacific theaters.[2] The base also functioned as a maintenance and supply depot for the Air Technical Service Command, handling aircraft modifications and repairs to sustain training operations. Facilities were scaled to accommodate more than 200 aircraft at peak capacity, with barracks and auxiliary buildings housing thousands of personnel in a round-the-clock training environment that emphasized rapid crew integration for B-17 units.[11] Following Japan's surrender in 1945, Geiger Field was deactivated as wartime demands subsided, with most military aircraft and equipment removed from the site.[12] In 1946, the surplus property was transferred back to civilian control under Spokane County through the War Assets Administration, enabling the airfield's transition to commercial aviation while retaining some military infrastructure.[12] A lingering military presence persisted into the Cold War era, as the site supported air defense missions through the 1950s; the U.S. Navy briefly activated a reserve training base there from 1948 to 1956, and in 1953 it reopened as Geiger Air Force Base under Air Defense Command, hosting the 84th Fighter Group with F-106 Delta Dart interceptors until 1963.[2]Post-war commercialization
Following the end of World War II, commercial air service resumed at Geiger Field in 1946, marking the airport's shift from military to civilian use, with West Coast Airlines serving as the primary regional carrier alongside United and Northwest Airlines.[2][13] The existing military infrastructure, including the runways constructed during the war, provided the essential foundation for these initial commercial operations.[2] In 1960, the facility was renamed Spokane International Airport to signify its expanding role and potential for international connections, particularly after Air Canada initiated service to Calgary.[2] This period saw substantial passenger traffic growth, driven by increasing regional demand and improved airline connectivity.[14] By the mid-1960s, further expansion became necessary; the addition of Concourse A in 1965, as part of a new $4.6 million terminal complex, enhanced capacity with dedicated gates for growing flight volumes from carriers like West Coast Airlines.[2][13] The airport's economic significance deepened in the early 1970s amid preparations for Expo '74, the world's first environmentally themed international exposition, as it facilitated increased air travel and cargo movements to support the anticipated influx of millions of visitors to Spokane.Terminal expansions and modernizations
In the 1970s, Spokane International Airport underwent significant expansions to accommodate the growing demand for jet aircraft service, including the addition of a second level to Concourses A and B in 1974, which enabled the installation of passenger boarding bridges and increased gate capacity.[15] These upgrades built upon the foundational terminal structure established in the post-war era, enhancing operational efficiency for larger commercial flights.[2] During the 1980s and 1990s, the airport pursued further developments to modernize facilities amid rising passenger volumes, culminating in the construction of Concourse C. This $20 million project added 80,000 square feet of space, including expanded baggage claim and ticketing areas, and opened in October 2000 with capacity for up to nine gates to support additional regional and national routes.[2][16][15] In 2006, the Terminal Refresh and Concourse Enhancement (TRACE) project modernized the terminal, rotunda, and concourses, improving passenger amenities and flow.[2] The Terminal Renovation and Expansion (TREX) program, launched in 2022, represents the airport's most ambitious modernization effort to date, addressing outdated infrastructure and projected growth. Phase 1 focused on the Concourse C expansion, adding 144,000 square feet and six new gates—three on the west end and three replacements on the east end—through a $150 million investment; the west expansion opened in June 2024, while the east portion is scheduled for completion in late 2025.[17][18][19] Phase 2, encompassing a centralized TSA security checkpoint, upgraded baggage claim facilities, and enhanced ticketing areas, is under construction, with substantial completion expected in fall 2027.[20][21][22] Funding for TREX has been secured through a combination of federal grants and local financing mechanisms, including a $6.4 million Airport Infrastructure Grant from the FAA in February 2023 to support terminal expansion design and construction, as well as passenger facility charge-backed bonds similar to those used for the original Concourse C.[23][4] Looking ahead, the airport's 2014 master plan outlines additional terminal modernizations by 2030 to boost annual capacity to over 6 million passengers, incorporating sustainable features and further gate enhancements to handle forecasted demand from regional economic growth.[24][18]Facilities and infrastructure
Airfield and runways
Spokane International Airport occupies approximately 6,000 acres of land southwest of Spokane, Washington, providing ample space for its airfield operations. The airfield features two primary asphalt runways oriented to accommodate prevailing winds in the region. Runway 3/21 measures 11,002 feet in length by 150 feet in width, while Runway 8/26 is 8,199 feet long by 150 feet wide, enabling efficient handling of commercial and cargo traffic.[4][25] Both runways support advanced landing capabilities, with Runway 3/21 equipped for Category III instrument landings via its Instrument Landing System (ILS), allowing operations in low-visibility conditions down to 600 feet run visibility. The pavement strengths—up to 200,000 pounds for single-wheel gear and 400,000 pounds for dual-tandem on Runway 3/21—accommodate large aircraft, including the Boeing 747 and equivalents, as verified by regulatory approvals for such operations. Runway 8/26 features GPS-based approaches, serving as a crosswind option to enhance operational flexibility during variable weather.[26][27] The taxiway system includes parallel routes such as Taxiways A and G flanking Runway 3/21, along with Taxiway C serving Runway 8/26, facilitating smooth aircraft movement across the airfield. Multiple aprons, including the west cargo area, east ramp, and general aviation zones totaling over 2 million square feet, provide parking for more than 50 aircraft simultaneously, supporting peak-hour turns and overnight storage. Navigation aids consist of ILS installations on Runway 3/21 and a Spokane VORTAC station located 5 miles southwest, aiding precise guidance for arriving and departing flights.[26][25] Environmental management on the airfield incorporates wildlife hazard mitigation to address waterfowl and bird activity near runways, as well as comprehensive stormwater systems with catchments, ditches, and recovery areas to handle runoff from the expansive paved surfaces. These runways were extended in prior modernization efforts to meet growing demand for larger aircraft.[25][26]Air traffic control
The air traffic control operations at Spokane International Airport (GEG) are conducted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) from the Ray Daves Air Traffic Control Tower, a 271-foot-tall structure located south of the terminal area. The tower, which cost $27.8 million to construct, opened in 2007 and serves as the primary facility for managing local airspace, including ground movements, takeoffs, and landings. It was officially named after Ray Daves—a World War II veteran and retired FAA air traffic controller who worked at the airport for 27 years—through Public Law 111-326, enacted in December 2010. The facility operates 24 hours a day and is capable of handling up to 200 aircraft operations daily during peak periods. Approach and departure control for GEG falls under the jurisdiction of the Seattle Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC) for en route traffic, while the local Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) at the tower manages terminal-area arrivals and departures within approximately 30-50 nautical miles of the airport. This integrated system ensures safe sequencing of flights using defined arrival and departure procedures aligned with the airport's runways. The TRACON provides radar services on frequencies such as 123.75 MHz and 133.35 MHz, coordinating with surrounding airspace to accommodate the airport's role as a small-hub facility serving regional and national routes. Surveillance capabilities at GEG include multilateration systems for precise aircraft tracking on the ground and in the air, supplemented by radar feeds from the ARTCC and local sources to monitor movements and issue conflict alerts. While larger airports deploy full ASDE-X surface detection equipment, GEG utilizes compatible multilateration and radar technologies to enhance situational awareness for controllers during low-visibility conditions and high-traffic scenarios. The FAA staffs the tower and TRACON with more than 20 certified controllers, with staffing levels reported at around 34 personnel to cover shifts and maintain operational redundancy. In 2024, GEG recorded 67,944 total aircraft operations, reflecting a steady increase in activity driven by growing passenger demand and cargo flights, with the tower facilitating an average of about 186 movements per day. These operations encompass commercial air carrier flights, general aviation, and occasional military traffic, all managed under FAA standards to prioritize safety and efficiency in the Pacific Northwest airspace.Passenger terminals and concourses
Spokane International Airport operates with a single main terminal building that encompasses three concourses dedicated to passenger processing and boarding. Concourses A and B form a connected complex via a central rotunda, primarily serving domestic flights operated by airlines such as Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Sun Country Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines, with a combined total of 23 gates (10 in Concourse A and 13 in Concourse B). Concourse C, which accommodates Alaska Airlines flights, features 8 gates arranged in a linear layout and is linked to the A/B complex post-security via a dedicated moving walkway for seamless passenger flow without re-clearing security.[28][29][30] Passenger amenities within the terminal emphasize convenience and regional flavor, including a variety of dining options such as Twigs Bistro for Northwest-inspired cuisine, Starbucks for coffee, Vintage Washington for local wines and tapas, and quick-service spots like Burger King and MVP Sports Bar. Shopping opportunities include retail outlets offering souvenirs, travel essentials, and regional products in the concourses and rotunda areas. Additional facilities support diverse needs, with free Wi-Fi available throughout under the "Spokane Int'l Guest" network, free baggage carts at key locations, and water bottle refill stations past security in all concourses.[31][32] Security screening occurs at multiple TSA checkpoints: one serving Concourses A and B near the rotunda, and a separate one adjacent to Concourse C, equipped with advanced computed tomography scanners for carry-on luggage. The ongoing Terminal Renovation and Expansion (TREX) program includes plans for a centralized TSA checkpoint in a new Central Hall to streamline access for all concourses, expected to enhance efficiency as passenger volumes grow. Accessibility features are robust, with elevators and escalators throughout the terminal, pet relief areas located pre-security at A/B and C baggage claims and post-security at Concourse A and upper Concourse C, and Mamava nursing suites in the A/B rotunda. Recent TREX enhancements to Concourse C add in-floor hearing loops at gates and multi-use information kiosks for passengers with disabilities.[33][17][34][18] Following the completion of initial TREX phases in 2024 and 2025, including the addition of three new gates to Concourse C's west end, the terminal's infrastructure supports over 4.2 million annual passengers, up from previous records, with projections for further growth to 6.2 million by 2030. This expanded capacity addresses rising demand while maintaining efficient passenger flow across the 144,000-square-foot Concourse C addition, which incorporates modern design elements like terrazzo floors from local materials and adjustable window shading.[35][30][18]Cargo and general aviation areas
Spokane International Airport maintains dedicated cargo facilities in the North Cargo Area, situated north of the main terminal and west of Runway 21's approach end. This area includes specialized aprons and hangars designed for freight and logistics operations, supporting major carriers such as UPS, FedEx, and Amazon Air. In 2024, these facilities handled 67,296 US tons of cargo, reflecting a decline from previous years but underscoring the airport's role as a key regional hub for air freight in the Inland Northwest.[36] General aviation operations at the airport are supported by fixed-base operators (FBOs), including Signature Flight Support and Aero Center Spokane, which offer essential services like aircraft fueling, maintenance, ground handling, and hangar leasing. Aero Center Spokane provides approximately 27,000 square feet of hangar space within its 36,000-square-foot facility, along with tie-down and ramp areas for transient and based aircraft. These amenities cater to private and business aviation, with the airport accommodating around 59 based aircraft as of recent records. The FBOs are positioned on the airfield to facilitate quick access, though much of the region's general aviation activity occurs at nearby Felts Field Airport.[37][38][39] Mail handling is integrated into the cargo operations, with the United States Postal Service (USPS) relying on scheduled all-cargo flights from providers like UPS and FedEx for domestic and regional distribution. A nearby USPS processing center supports logistics, ensuring seamless transfer of mail volumes through the airport's freight infrastructure. To meet rising demand from e-commerce, the airport has pursued expansions, including the 2021 establishment of an Amazon Air cargo hub, which enhanced capacity for high-volume parcel shipments. Future developments may include additional cargo infrastructure to capitalize on growing online retail trends.[40][41] Cargo security at Spokane International Airport follows federal mandates, with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) overseeing separate screening protocols for freight and mail to ensure 100% inspection equivalent to passenger baggage standards. These measures occur in dedicated areas away from passenger terminals, minimizing disruptions while maintaining compliance. The cargo zones' proximity to passenger facilities allows for shared airfield resources, such as runways and taxiways, optimizing overall operations.[42]Airlines and destinations
Passenger services
Spokane International Airport (GEG) functions as a small-hub primary commercial service airport according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), facilitating domestic passenger travel exclusively with no international routes.[43][4] The airport accommodates eight main passenger carriers, providing non-stop flights to more than 20 U.S. destinations and supporting over 100 daily departures, with an emphasis on low-cost carriers alongside major network airlines.[7][44][45] The dominant carrier is Alaska Airlines, operating as a focus city with a market share of about 32% of enplanements as of August 2025, followed by Delta Air Lines at 26%, Southwest Airlines at 22%, United Airlines at 9%, American Airlines at 8%, Allegiant Air at 2%, Sun Country Airlines at 0.3%, and Frontier Airlines at 0.5%.[46] Sun Country Airlines introduced seasonal passenger service to GEG after 2023, while Frontier Airlines restarted operations in May 2025.[46] These airlines collectively offer a blend of high-frequency regional connections and leisure-oriented low-cost options, with Alaska, Southwest, Allegiant, and Frontier emphasizing affordable fares.[7][47] Non-stop destinations encompass key West Coast, Mountain West, and Midwest hubs, with service frequencies varying by season and carrier—typically multiple daily flights to high-demand cities like Seattle and Denver, and fewer to seasonal routes. Representative examples include high-frequency year-round service to Seattle (up to 26 daily flights via Alaska and Delta), Denver (up to 10 daily via United, Frontier, and Southwest), Las Vegas (up to 5 daily via Southwest and Allegiant), and Chicago (daily via American and seasonal via Southwest). Seasonal operations extend to Minneapolis (up to 8 daily via Delta and United) and other spots like Charlotte. The full scope prioritizes domestic connectivity without international extensions.[47][44][8]| Airline | Key Non-Stop Destinations (Year-Round Unless Noted) | Approximate Daily Frequency (Peak) |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska Airlines | Seattle, Portland, Boise, San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, Santa Ana | 30+ total |
| Delta Air Lines | Seattle, Salt Lake City, Minneapolis (year-round/seasonal mix), Los Angeles, Atlanta | 20+ total |
| Southwest Airlines | Denver, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Oakland, Sacramento, San Jose, Chicago Midway (seasonal), Dallas Love Field (seasonal) | 25+ total |
| United Airlines | Denver, San Francisco, Minneapolis (seasonal) | 10+ total |
| American Airlines | Dallas-Fort Worth, Phoenix, Chicago O'Hare, Charlotte (seasonal) | 5+ total |
| Allegiant Air | Las Vegas, Phoenix-Mesa | 2-3 total |
| Frontier Airlines | Denver, Phoenix (begins November 23, 2025) | 1 total |
| Sun Country Airlines | Seasonal routes (e.g., Minneapolis, leisure destinations) | 1-2 total |
Cargo operations
Spokane International Airport serves as a key regional hub for air cargo, primarily handling express parcel services and freight shipments through three major carriers: FedEx Express, UPS, and Amazon Air.[41] FedEx and UPS provide daily scheduled all-cargo flights, while Amazon Air operates a dedicated sort facility for e-commerce logistics, supporting rapid distribution across the Inland Northwest.[40][48] These operations utilize the airport's shared airfield infrastructure with passenger flights, enabling efficient integration of cargo and commercial air traffic.[4] In 2024, the airport processed 67,296 U.S. tons of cargo, a decrease of 12.8% from the 77,171 tons handled in 2023. This volume reflects the airport's role in managing time-sensitive shipments, though the decline may stem from broader shifts in supply chain dynamics following peak pandemic-era e-commerce surges. Despite the dip, cargo activity remains robust, with facilities supporting 24/7 operations to accommodate overnight express deliveries and international freight. The airport's cargo areas include specialized infrastructure for handling diverse commodities, such as cold storage for perishables and capabilities for hazardous materials compliant with federal regulations.[49] These features cater to regional needs, including the transport of agricultural products like fresh produce and manufactured goods from local industries. Economically, cargo operations contribute to the airport's overall $3 billion annual impact on the Inland Northwest, bolstering exports and logistics for agriculture and manufacturing sectors in eastern Washington and northern Idaho.[4][50]Traffic statistics
Annual passenger volumes
Spokane International Airport has experienced significant growth in passenger volumes over recent decades, recovering strongly from the COVID-19 pandemic and setting consecutive records in the post-pandemic period. In 2020, total passenger traffic plummeted to 1,926,159 due to travel restrictions, but volumes rebounded to 3,280,062 in 2021 and continued climbing thereafter.[51] By 2023, the airport achieved its first annual record with 4,131,266 passengers, driven by expanded airline services and regional demand.[51] The upward trend peaked in 2024, when total passengers reached a new high of 4,264,875, marking a 3.23% increase from the previous year.[51] This growth reflects the airport's role as a key hub for the Inland Northwest, supported by low-cost carriers like Southwest Airlines and Allegiant Air adding routes and capacity.[52] Regional tourism, including visits to nearby attractions such as riverside parks and winter sports areas, has also contributed to sustained demand.[53] Enplanements totaled 2,133,477 in calendar year 2024, underscoring the airport's status as Washington's second-busiest facility.[51] For context, the following table summarizes total annual passenger volumes from 2018 to 2024:| Year | Total Passengers |
|---|---|
| 2018 | 3,998,272 |
| 2019 | 4,036,920 |
| 2020 | 1,926,159 |
| 2021 | 3,280,062 |
| 2022 | 3,920,972 |
| 2023 | 4,131,266 |
| 2024 | 4,264,875 |
Top domestic routes
Spokane International Airport (GEG) handles a significant volume of domestic traffic, with non-stop flights serving over 20 U.S. destinations as of 2024. The busiest routes are primarily to major hubs and leisure markets on the West Coast and Southwest, driven by business, tourism, and connecting traffic. Passenger volumes on these routes reflect the airport's role as a regional gateway, with data derived from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Origin-Destination (O&D) survey, which captures ticketed itineraries to avoid double-counting connections.[55] The top domestic routes in 2024 highlight Seattle as the dominant corridor, accounting for a substantial share of GEG's traffic due to its proximity and frequency of service. Denver and Las Vegas follow as key business and vacation destinations, respectively, supported by multiple carriers offering daily flights. These routes collectively represent over 40% of GEG's domestic passenger activity, underscoring the airport's focus on high-demand, short- to medium-haul markets.[55]| Rank | Destination | Primary Carriers |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seattle (SEA) | Alaska Airlines, Southwest Airlines |
| 2 | Denver (DEN) | United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Frontier Airlines |
| 3 | Las Vegas (LAS) | Allegiant Air, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines |
Airline market shares
In 2024, Alaska Airlines maintained its position as the leading carrier at Spokane International Airport, accounting for 31.4% of enplanements, followed by Delta Air Lines at 27.0% and Southwest Airlines at 22.6%. American Airlines held 9.1%, United Airlines 8.0%, and smaller carriers including Allegiant Air (1.8%) and Sun Country Airlines (0.2%) made up the remainder. Hawaiian Airlines did not operate at GEG in 2024; Frontier Airlines resumed service in May 2025.[51]| Airline | Enplanements (2024) | Market Share (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska Airlines | 668,980 | 31.4 |
| Delta Air Lines | 575,876 | 27.0 |
| Southwest Airlines | 481,310 | 22.6 |
| American Airlines | 194,167 | 9.1 |
| United Airlines | 169,749 | 8.0 |
| Allegiant Air | 38,820 | 1.8 |
| Sun Country Airlines | 4,575 | 0.2 |
| Total | 2,133,477 | 100.0 |
