Willard Airport’s executive director was joined by the CEO of the Champaign County Economic Development Corporation in meetings with airlines at the end of October. In 2024, the Airport had almost a dozen in-person airline meetings, as it works to increase travel options. Air service development – the process of recruiting air service – never […]
Continue ReadingNew Midfield Taxiways Open to Statewide Fanfare
U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) was joined by University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Chancellor Robert Jones and a cast of other dignitaries at a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of University of Illinois’ Willard Airport’s midfield taxiway realignment project. This federally funded project is part of a broader effort by the Federal […]
Continue ReadingIon Grove Café Has Served More than 8,000 Customers Since Opening
Locally owned Ion Grove Café opened in the gate area at Willard Airport in August. In just the last five months, it’s served more than 8,000 travelers – a huge success. Phil Rowell, the CEO of Ion Grove, said the café is performing even better than he expected. “We are thrilled and grateful for the […]
Continue ReadingAirport plans improvements in Terminal, General Aviation Aprons and Road
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 […]
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