The Illinois Department of Transportation has named Willard Airport the 2023 Primary Airport of the Year for the State of Illinois. The Award is given to the top commercial service airport in the State with more than 10,000 passenger boardings each year. Willard beat out all other airports across the State, including Midway and O’Hare Airports in Chicago. This is the first time Willard Airport has been named Primary Airport of the Year.

“We are honored to be selected as the Primary Airport of the Year,” Willard Executive Director Tim Bannon told WCIA 3 News in Champaign. “We wish to thank our dedicated staff, tenants, American Airlines, and the community for supporting our airport and helping us to stay focused on our mission of providing connectivity to the world.”

Transportation officials said Willard’s strong commitment to passenger safety and satisfaction made them stand out. Also considered were cooperation and coordination with the state, safety record, maintenance of the facility and promotion of aviation and educational events.

“Illinois serves as the nexus of North America’s transportation network, with aviation playing a key role in moving passengers and freight around the state, country and world,” Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman said in a state press release. “Our aviation partners, from massive international airports to smaller regional facilities to a single grass landing strip, are vital to our state’s economy and mobility. These awards represent our thanks for the services they provide.”

Bannon also told WCIA 3 News, “We’re all doing really great work to grow the airport and to do our part industry-wise. So, that’s what really makes me happy to be here and be a part of a great core group of individuals that are trying to make this place better.”