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 […]
Continue ReadingNew Study Shows Champaign County Generates Almost One Million Passengers per Year
Demand for service in Champaign County, and at Willard Airport, has fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels. A new passenger study, completed with data from 2023, shows that the County generates almost 2,700 passengers per day. But fewer passengers are using Willard Airport because there simply aren’t enough flights. While virtually all flights between Willard and […]
Continue ReadingWillard Airport Launches New Website
Willard Airport is excited to unveil a refreshed airport website. It features a new, modern design, fresh imagery, refreshed content, and improved navigation on all platforms including on your mobile device. For the first time, the Airport has added Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) features. Those include settings for Seizure Safe, Vision Impaired, ADHD, Cognitive […]
Continue ReadingIon Grove Café Ready to Open
The Airport is happy to officially welcome Ion Grove Café to the gate area. It opened with limited services in the last week. Soon, you’ll be able to pick-up a bite to eat or a quick coffee before you board your plane at Willard Airport. Ion Grove Café will feature healthy meals, snacks, and drinks […]
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