The University of Illinois Willard Airport was selected as Primary Airport of the Year by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) for 2023. Willard Airport received the award from IDOT on September 25, 2023, during the Illinois Public Airport Association Fall Conference. A primary airport is defined as a commercial service airport with more than 10,000 passenger boardings each year.
Willard Airport was selected because of their accomplishments, including an outstanding partnership with IDOT and a strong commitment to customer safety and satisfaction. Among the award considerations are cooperation and coordination with the state, safety record, maintenance of the facility, the promotion of aviation, and educational events. Willard Airport is home to Flightstar Corporation which offers world class fixed base operations, and maintenance repair and overhaul services. Willard is also home to the Parkland College Institute of Aviation, whose mission is to provide industry leading flight training for tomorrow’s aviators. American Airlines offers daily non-stop service from Willard to Chicago O’Hare and Dallas/Fort Worth.