FORT DODGE — The Fort Dodge Regional Airport is seeing an increase in the number of passengers coming and going for the Thanksgiving holiday season.

According to Rhonda Chambers, director of aviation for the Fort Dodge Regional Airport, the 12:40 p.m. flight from the airport has the most passengers flying out, with the 6:39 p.m. flight having the most coming into Fort Dodge.

“We expect a full parking lot this Thanksgiving,” Chambers said. “It appears Sunday will be the busiest day for both departures and arrivals.”

With the added demand for holiday travel, United Express, operated by SkyWest, has added flights in and out of the Fort Dodge Regional Airport on Tuesday and Saturday, instead of the usual one flight.

On Thursday, one flight will come into Fort Dodge instead of the usual two due to the lower number of people flying on Thanksgiving Day.

Chambers anticipates an increase in December travel as well and encourages area residents to consider Fort Dodge Regional Airport for upcoming holiday travel, noting that costs tend to be lower than flying from large metropolitan airports.

“When considering costs, it’s important to take everything into account,” Chambers said.

“Our parking is free, and there’s also the cost of your time and fuel to drive to a more distant airport and sometimes even stay overnight in a hotel. With Christmas and New Year’s just around the corner, there’s not much time left to book your tickets. I recommend visiting United.com to check availability and fares. Sometimes flying on off-peak days and times can provide a nice discount.”