McKinney airport starts commercial service as Avelo announces first nonstop routes

McKinney is about to get its first commercial air service. The City of McKinney and Avelo Airlines say passenger flights from McKinney National Airport will begin Nov. 11, 2026, the same day the airport’s new passenger terminal opens to the public.

The initial route map is limited but clear: Las Vegas, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Orlando and Tampa. The city says Avelo will be the first commercial carrier at the airport, turning a long-planned project into a real travel option for North Texas residents.

What this means locally

For travelers, the practical change is convenience. A closer airport could save time for leisure trips, family visits and some business travel, especially for McKinney-area residents who now drive farther to reach the region’s larger airports. For local employers, the launch could make it easier to move people in and out of the area without adding a long airport commute.

The airport’s own information says the new terminal is under construction and that airline service is expected to begin after the building opens in late 2026. City officials and airport leaders have framed the project as part of McKinney’s long-term growth plan, with the terminal and commercial service intended to support jobs, tourism and broader economic development.

What to watch next

Schedules and fares can change before launch, so travelers should check route details before making plans. The first phase is also only a starting point: the city and airport have said the terminal is designed for future expansion, which means the real question now is how quickly service grows after the Nov. 11 debut.

Sources

• City of McKinney news release on first nonstop destinations
• McKinney National Airport official website
• Avelo Airlines press release on McKinney service
• CBS Texas report on first McKinney routes
• Community Impact McKinney report on Avelo service