Willard University Airport

Willard Airport is not merely a regional transport hub, but a true aerial gateway to one of the country's leading educational centres, the University of Illinois. Situated amidst picturesque plains, this aviation hub offers travellers a unique combination of home-like comfort and high service efficiency, something often unavailable in giant aviation hubs. Here, away from the noise of megacities, every flight is met with special hospitality, turning your arrival in Champaign into a calm and pleasant start to your journey.

Airport Features and Benefits:

Willard Airport holds a unique status—it is one of the few commercial airports in the USA that is owned and operated by a university. This influences the entire operation of the air harbour: order reigns here, and safety is maintained at the highest level, as the airport also serves as a base for the Institute of Aviation.

The main advantage for passengers is the speed of completing formalities. Due to the compactness of the single terminal, the path from the entrance to the gate often takes mere minutes. Queues for security screening are a rarity here, allowing travellers to arrive at the airport a little later than in major cities and feel less stressed before their flight.

It is also worth noting its strategic location. The airport is located literally a 10-15 minute drive from the University of Illinois campus and the city centre of Champaign. This makes it incredibly convenient for students, their parents, professors, and business travellers who value their time and comfort.

• Official Website: www.iflycu.com
• Help Desk Phone: +1 (217) 244-8604
• Address: 11 Airport Rd, Savoy, IL 61874, USA
• Email: You can contact the airport administration via the special contact form on the official website.
• Social Media: Willard Airport actively maintains pages on social networks, where it publishes current news and answers passenger questions.
  • Facebook: facebook.com/FlyCU
  • X (formerly Twitter): twitter.com/iflycu
• Lost and Found Information: If you have lost personal items within the terminal building, please call +1 (217) 244-8604. In case of items lost on board the aircraft or issues with checked baggage, you must contact your airline's representative office directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions and assistance, you can use the main airport help desk phone: +1 (217) 244-8604.

Willard Airport (CMI) is conveniently located just a few kilometres south of the city of Champaign, making it easily accessible for travellers. The journey from the city centre or the University of Illinois campus to the terminal usually takes no more than 15-20 minutes by car. There are several ways to get to the airport, suitable for different budgets and preferences.

The most economical option is public transport. The Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (MTD) bus network offers routes connecting the city to the airport. This is an excellent choice for students and travellers on a limited budget. It is important to check the current schedule on the official MTD website in advance, as the frequency of buses may change depending on the day of the week and the season.

For those who value comfort and time, the ideal choice would be a taxi or ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft. This is the fastest and most direct way to get to the terminal, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling with family. The cost of a trip from the centre of Champaign is usually 20-30 dollars, but may vary depending on demand and traffic conditions.

If you plan to actively explore the state of Illinois and other regions of the USA, renting a car will be the most convenient solution. Desks of leading rental companies are located in the Willard Airport terminal, where you can easily arrange a rental. For those arriving in their own vehicle, the airport offers both short-term and long-term parking. Long-term parking rates are quite reasonable, making it convenient for those leaving their car for the duration of their entire trip.

Willard Airport (CMI) is distinguished by a simple and passenger-friendly structure. There is one passenger terminal operating here, which serves all flights—both departures and arrivals. Thanks to its compact size and thoughtful layout, navigating the airport causes no difficulties even for those here for the first time.

The terminal map is intuitive. All key zones are located on the main level. Immediately at the entrance, you will find airline check-in counters and baggage drop-off points. Walking a little further, you will see a single Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoint. After passing through it, passengers enter the departure zone with gates. The arrival zone and baggage claim belts are also located on this level, allowing you to leave the airport quickly after landing. Since there is only one terminal, transitions between zones take mere minutes.

Registration and screening procedures at Willard Airport are significantly faster than in major aviation hubs. Due to the small passenger flow, queues here are a rarity. Typically, completing all formalities from entering the building to arriving at the gate takes no more than 20–30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 90 minutes before departure to check in luggage and pass through security without rushing.

The main advice for navigation is not to worry. It is impossible to get lost in this compact airport. All signs are clear, and staff are always ready to help. The departure zone is a single waiting hall providing access to all gates. You will not have to cover long distances or use shuttles—everything is within walking distance. This makes Willard Airport an ideal choice for those who value comfort and time savings.

The history of Willard Airport (CMI) is inextricably linked with the University of Illinois. The airport was officially opened on October 26, 1945, and named in honour of Arthur Cutts Willard, the university president from 1934 to 1946. Initially, it was created as a training and research base for the university's aviation programme, which laid the foundation for its unique status in the USA aviation industry.

Commercial passenger transport began in 1954, marking an important milestone in the airport's development. The first terminal to serve the growing flow of travellers was built in 1960. In subsequent decades, the airport continued to expand, adding new routes and improving infrastructure to meet the requirements of the time and strengthen its role in the transport system of Champaign city.

Significant modernisation took place at the end of the 20th century. In 1988, a modern terminal building was opened, which, with subsequent updates, is used to this day. To accommodate larger and more modern aircraft, a large-scale reconstruction was carried out in 2010–2011, during which the main runway was significantly lengthened and strengthened. These improvements allowed the airport to maintain a high level of service and safety.

One of the most interesting facts in the history of Willard Airport is that it remains one of the few commercial airports in the country owned and operated by a university. It continues to serve not only as a transport hub but also as a crucial training ground for the University of Illinois Institute of Aviation, where future pilots, air traffic controllers, and technicians gain practical experience. This dual role makes it a truly unique institution in the world of aviation.

Despite its compact size, Willard Airport (CMI) provides passengers with a set of key services for a comfortable journey. Before departure, you can have a snack at the local café, which offers fresh pastries, sandwiches, and coffee, or purchase beverages, snacks, and press at a small shop in the terminal.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, allowing you to stay connected or work while waiting for your flight. For the convenience of passengers, waiting areas are equipped with charging stations for mobile phones and other gadgets. ATMs are installed in the terminal, though currency exchange services are not provided.

The airport is fully adapted for passengers with disabilities: special parking spaces, ramps, and accessible toilets are provided. For assistance and accompaniment, including the provision of a wheelchair, it is recommended to contact your airline in advance. Travellers with small children can use baby changing tables located in the restrooms. In case of need for emergency medical assistance, you should immediately contact any airport employee.

Willard Airport does not have separate VIP lounges or business lounges; waiting areas are common for all passengers. A small conference room may be available for business meetings upon prior request. There are no hotels directly in the airport building, but several hotels are located a few minutes' drive away, which can be quickly reached by taxi or shuttle.

Willard Airport (CMI) is a compact regional aviation hub, and dining options here correspond to its size. The main and only catering establishment is located airside, meaning after passing through security control, which is convenient for passengers waiting for departure.

You can have a snack before your flight at the café of the popular chain Einstein Bros. Bagels. This is an excellent place for breakfast or a light lunch. As the name suggests, the establishment's main speciality is freshly baked bagels with various cream cheeses (shmears). The menu also features breakfast sandwiches with egg and bacon or sausage, classic lunch sandwiches (for example, with turkey), salads, pastries, and, of course, a wide selection of coffee and other beverages. Food can be taken with you on board.

For vegetarians, there are suitable options, such as bagels with vegetables or cheese, as well as salads. However, the choice for passengers with strict dietary restrictions (gluten-free, vegan, or Halal meals) is extremely limited. If you adhere to a special diet, it is strongly recommended to bring food with you.

The café opens before the first morning flight and closes after the departure of the last evening aircraft. Prices here correspond to the average level for USA airports, meaning they are slightly higher than in the city of Champaign. In the pre-security zone (landside), snacking opportunities are limited to vending machines where you can buy drinks and snacks.

To ensure your journey through Willard Airport (CMI) in the city of Champaign goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of these useful tips. Willard Airport is a regional hub, so it is usually quieter here than in major hubs, but preparation is never superfluous.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights within the USA, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 90 minutes before departure. Although queues here are generally shorter, this time buffer will allow you to check in luggage and pass through security control without rushing. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight and save the boarding pass on your smartphone.

Security Screening and Seat Selection. Security control at Willard Airport is standard for the USA. Keep your ID and boarding pass ready. When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: a window seat will offer beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat provides more legroom and the ability to stand up without disturbing neighbours.

Hand Luggage. Liquids in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a single transparent bag, are allowed in hand luggage. Electronics, such as laptops, must be removed from the bag for screening. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Be sure to check your airline's rules regarding the size and weight of hand luggage.

Connections and Customs. Most flights from Champaign operate to major hub airports (such as Chicago or Dallas), where further connections take place. If you have a connecting flight, allow enough time between flights, especially if transferring to an international flight. Passengers on commercial flights pass through customs and border control at the first airport of arrival in the country, so this procedure is absent at Willard Airport itself for domestic flights.

Savings and Unforeseen Situations. To save money, book tickets in advance and consider different options for getting to the airport—taxi, car sharing, or personal car (compare parking costs). Bring an empty water bottle with you to fill it after passing through security. In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for information. Clarify your rights as a passenger—in some cases, you may be provided with vouchers for food or accommodation. As the airport is small, leisure opportunities may be limited, so it is useful to have a book or a charged power bank with you.