Willard Airport is planning three major projects: The Commercial Airline Terminal Rehabilitation Project, which replaces two roof sections, two escalators, two elevators, and other improvements; an apron project to repair worn-out pavement where general aviation planes are parked; and a road and parking lot project with new asphalt for both employee parking and the entrance […]
Continue ReadingNew Rental Car Center Under Construction
Construction is underway on a $200,000 project to make renting a car at Willard Airport much easier. The new rental car center, on the south side of the terminal, will include new counters for all current rental car companies: Enterprise, Alamo, National, Avis and Budget. The counters will include improvements for Americans with Disabilities. The […]
Continue ReadingDon’t Forget: Be Real ID Ready!
On May 7, 2025, travelers must be REAL ID compliant to board domestic flights at Willard Airport, or any airport in the US. Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act recommended that the Federal Government, “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses.” The Act established minimum security […]
Continue ReadingConstruction Underway on Major Safety Project to Realign Taxiway
A major safety project is underway this summer at Willard Airport, realigning a taxiway that connects the airline terminal, FlightStar, and the Parkland College Institute of Aviation with two of the Airport’s runways. The taxiway had what inspectors called, “non-standard geometry.” In other words, it connected to the runways in spots that the Federal Aviation […]
Continue ReadingLetter from the Executive Director – Summer 2024
As we head into the heart of summer, it will be the busiest time of the year at University of Illinois – Willard Airport. We expect nearly 500 people a day to use the airport, boarding flights to Chicago O’Hare and Dallas/Ft. Worth on our longtime partner, American Airlines. Travelers this summer can look forward […]
Continue ReadingCommunity Raises More than $800,000 for Vacation-Focused Service
To date, community organizations and the University of Illinois have pledged more than $800,000 in funds for service on ultra-low cost carriers to destinations in Florida, Arizona, and Nevada. The Airport is in the process of presenting business cases for service to carriers with interest. Willard Airport’s Executive Director was joined by the CEO of […]
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