McKinney National Airport opens commercial service to Fort Myers
Avelo Airlines launches the first scheduled passenger flight from the new facility, offering eleven routes but limited westward options for local travelers.
By Vincent Parker ·
McKinney National Airport will host its inaugural commercial passenger flight on Nov. 11.
Avelo Airlines serves as the initial carrier for the facility, operating eleven destinations from the North Texas hub. The first scheduled departure is bound for Fort Myers, Florida. Airport Director Ken Carley described the launch as a milestone, noting that staff worked behind the scenes for years to reach this point. The terminal underwent substantial changes since the facility received Federal Aviation Administration certification in September. The space, which was previously empty, is now equipped for passenger traffic.
Local residents have reacted to the new infrastructure with mixed practical concerns. Rod Rimmer, a McKinney resident of six years, toured the facility and stated that the interior appeared very new. Rimmer highlighted the travel time advantage over Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, noting a 45-minute drive from his home to the major hub. He joked that he could almost walk to McKinney National. However, Rimmer's willingness to fly from the new airport depends on route availability. He expressed hope for westward expansion, as only two of the eleven current Avelo destinations lie west of North Texas: Las Vegas and Denver.
The limited westward service presents specific challenges for residents with ties to the West Coast. Rimmer, who previously lived in central California, explained that visiting his former home would require a two-day itinerary due to the lack of direct or efficient connections. He noted that the current route map makes such a trip difficult.
Airport leadership plans to monitor community response and demand levels as service begins. Carley said the team intends to analyze how passengers react to the new options. This data will guide future discussions with Avelo regarding the addition of new routes. The physical infrastructure already accommodates growth. The terminal starts with four gates but is constructed to support six. Hundreds of acres surrounding the airport remain undeveloped, providing space for future expansion.
The immediate operational focus is on moving the first passengers. Carley emphasized that the new service provides more choices and options for the North Texas region. The launch marks the transition of the site from a certification phase to active commercial aviation.
