03/12/2026
The future of Northern Virginia’s economy depends on how well our airports connect to the region.
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) play critical roles in keeping the National Capital Region connected—to global markets, national business hubs, and millions of travelers each year.
At DCA, passenger demand continues to grow, with the airport serving more than 25 million travelers annually, highlighting its importance as a key domestic gateway for the region.
Meanwhile, strong connectivity at IAD is helping drive airline investment.
“Dulles International Airport has seen more than 1 million trips and airlines have told airport officials they are bringing more flights to IAD because of the direct rail connection,” WMATA Media Relations Manager Jason Pascale told Capital News Service in 2023.
From Metro access to DCA to the Silver Line connection to IAD, transportation investments that improve airport accessibility strengthen the entire regional economy.
WATF advocates for transportation investments that expand airport accessibility—not just for travelers, but for the businesses, jobs, and global connections that power our region.