Airfares at Wichita Eisenhower National Airport dropped 4% in 4th quarter 2018 compared to 4th quarter 2017, while the national average fare increased 1%. Wichita’s average fare was $390.16, compared to $407.76 in Q4 2017 and $606.82 in Q4 2000 (fares are adjusted for inflation).
The most dramatic change in Q4 2018 was due to Frontier Airlines and its impact on fares and passengers to Denver. Passenger traffic increased 137% while the average one-way fare fell 48%. In Q4 2017, the average one-way fare on United to Denver was $242; in Q4 2018, Frontier’s average fare was $30. Keep in mind, Frontier is an ultra low-cost carrier, charging very low fares and high ancillary fees, yet making it affordable for folks to travel. Passengers increased 48%, from 40 to 96 passengers per day.
| Airport | Q4 2000 | Q4 2017 | Q4 2018 | Q4 2018 - Q4 2000 | Q4-2018 - Q4 2017 |
||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas City | $406.63 | $350.32 | $345.82 | -$60.81 | -15% | -$4.50 | -1% |
| Oklahoma City | $443.02 | $396.38 | -$381.53 | -$61.50 | -14% | -$14.85 | -4% |
| Tulsa | $437.74 | $398.20 | $394.04 | -$43.70 | -10% | -$4.16 | -1% |
| Wichita | $606.82 | $407.76 | $390.16 | -$216.65 | -36% | -$17.59 | -4% |
| National Average | $492.54 | $354.98 | $359.30 | -$133.24 | -27% | $4.32 | 1% |
Source: Bureau of Transportation Statistics
