Rapid City Regional Airport is having its busiest year ever, thanks to strong demand for air travel in the Black Hills and added airline capacity.

In spite of ominous news about capacity reductions by airlines across the country, Rapid City's air service had a 25 percent increase in capacity and passengers through June, compared to the same period last year.

In June, 86 percent of available seats were filled.

"June passenger numbers we're very strong," said Mason Short, airport executive director. "July appears to just as strong. Traditionally, the Sturgis rally week is our peak for passenger numbers."

Because of the increased traffic, airport officials are encouraging passengers that intend to fly out of Rapid City to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before scheduled flights.

Airport officials are predicting that this year will likely bring a record number of boardings, possibly exceeding a total of 600,000 inbound and outbound passengers.