The general aviation apron, where aircraft of all shapes and sizes are serviced and boarded, will be repaved to ensure a longer useful life, and to ensure operations remain safe. The project was awarded to William Charles Construction and will begin this summer. It’s the single-largest project, in terms of budget, at Willard Airport this […]
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New TSA Checkpoint Nears Completion
Faster security, with less hassle, will be in place by the end of March at Willard Airport. Construction is nearly complete on a new Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Security Screening Checkpoint. The new checkpoint is in the former café/conference space on the 2nd level of the terminal, to the right of the escalators. This underutilized […]
Continue ReadingUnited Airlines to Launch Flights at University of Illinois-Willard Airport
Daily Nonstops to Chicago O’Hare Begin April 30, 2026 University of Illinois-Willard Airport is excited to announce that United Airlines will launch new service connecting Champaign-Urbana (CMI) and Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) beginning April 30, 2026. The new service will operate four times daily, year-round. United will greatly expand travel options from east central […]
Continue ReadingIon Grove Café’s Ruthie Harper Honored by Experience Champaign-Urbana
Ruthie Harper from Ion Grove Café at Willard Airport was recently recognized by Experience Champaign‑Urbana with their prestigious Brilliant Spirit Award at the 2025 Toast to Tourism event. The award honors “individuals or organizations who have shown innovation, creativity, or collaboration in welcoming visitors and residents to the greater Champaign‑Urbana area.” As a key team member at […]
Continue ReadingNew TSA Checkpoint Construction Underway
Faster security, with less hassle, is on the way at Willard. Construction has started on a new Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoint. The original TSA checkpoint – a single-lane screening station located on the walkway bridge between the terminal and gate area – is too small under current post‑9/11 design standards. It routinely causes bottlenecks, […]
Continue ReadingWillard Site of Groundbreaking Pavement Research
A team led by the University of Illinois’ Imad Al‑Qadi has launched a $1 million FAA‑sponsored project to develop cracking performance tests for airfield asphalt mixes. The project involves collaboration with the University of New Hampshire, Arizona State University, Applied Research Associates, and Heritage Research Group. The research team collected loose mix, aggregates, asphalt binders, and field […]
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