The launch of United Airlines’ flight services between the University of Illinois Willard Airport and Chicago O’Hare International Airport, originally scheduled to begin April 30, has been delayed to June 1.
According to a Thursday announcement on social media by Willard Airport, the change is due to “ongoing regulatory uncertainty regarding airspace capacity at Chicago O’Hare International Airport.”
In February, the Federal Aviation Administration asked airlines to reduce flights through O’Hare, citing concerns that existing flight schedules risk exceeding airport capacity and jeopardizing safety. United and American Airlines have both been significantly increasing flights through the international hub.
United announced in January that it would begin operating four flights per day between Champaign-Urbana and Chicago as part of a plan to reach 750 daily flights from O’Hare. American Airlines is the only airline currently flying out of Willard Airport, offering direct flights to O’Hare and Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport.
Four other regional Midwest airports were part of United’s expanded service plan. Operations between O’Hare and Kalamazoo-Battle Creek International Airport — slated to begin April 30 — were also delayed to June 1.
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Kalamazoo Battle-Creek International Airport clarified in its Friday announcement of postponed service that “airline schedules and start dates are determined solely by the airlines and the FAA.” It also stated United is working with passengers to provide alternate options and refunds.
Willard Airport similarly encouraged customers to reach out to United with any concerns regarding bookings.
“Customers who may be affected by this change, or who would like additional information about their bookings, are encouraged to visit United.com for available contact options or to call United Airlines directly at 1-800-825-9925,” the announcement from Willard Airport read.
