With half of the year over, the Airport Authority would like to take the opportunity to share some positive news with you. The Greater Peoria Regional Airport has been bustling with a high number of passengers, great fares, new destinations, events, and anniversaries. The airport has seen a 13.5 percent increase in total passengers, with a 24 percent increase in June 2004 compared to the June 2003 passenger levels. With half a year remaining, we're confident 2004 will be a great year, with the community's continued support.
On July 15, American Eagle launched new daily jet service to Dallas/Fort Worth from the Greater Peoria Regional Airport. Dallas/Fort Worth gives us a great gateway to the west. Dallas/Fort Worth has continued jet service to Denver, Los Angeles, and Phoenix and international service to South America, the Caribbean, and Europe. Since the inaugural flight, American Eagle has seen strong demand and utilization of the service. With an early morning departure and late evening arrival, we're seeing passengers coming from all areas of central Illinois to take advantage of this exclusive service.
Turning to our other exclusive western destination, Allegiant Air celebrated its 100th flight to Las Vegas July 19; Allegiant began service March 3. Peoria continues to be their best performing market, with 80 percent of Allegiant's bookings coming from a 100-mile radius of the airport.
We've quickly come upon our third anniversary with Delta Connection to Atlanta. This air service has been a tremendous benefit to the community. Not only does Delta Connection offer another major hub option for our travelers, but it's led the way in offering competitive pricing at the Greater Peoria Regional Airport. Because of their pricing, we now offer low air fares to many communities. In 2004, Delta Connection has seen a 28 percent increase in their passengers.
Our Northwest Airlines carrier, Mesaba, also just celebrated its 60th anniversary. Since Northwest added its third flight to Minneapolis, Northwest has seen a 42 percent increase in passenger levels. Its Minneapolis hub offers great service to our country's northwest region and to Europe and Asia.
United Airlines, American Connection, and American Eagle continue to be the "work horses" for the airport. With 10 daily flights to Chicago and three daily flights to St. Louis, we offer more opportunities to reach your destination than any other downstate airport. Both United and American have seen a 43 percent and 50 percent increase, respectively, from 2003 passenger levels.
Our last thank you to the community was the tremendous success of the 2004 Eagle Radio Prairie Air Show. We had record-breaking attendance. Also, the Prairie Air Show and the airport donated nearly 300 tickets to local non-profit organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs of Peoria, Children's Home of Central Illinois, and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
In closing, thank you. IBI