Avelo Airlines will start four additional routes from McKinney National Airport in December 2026, increasing its presence with a third Boeing 737-800 aircraft based at the airport. Flights to Denver International Airport and Atlanta-Hartsfield Jackson International Airport begin December 16, 2026, while service to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport and Nashville International Airport launches December 17, 2026.
Service to Denver and Atlanta will operate four times weekly on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. Flights to New Orleans and Nashville are scheduled twice weekly on Thursday and Sunday. Fares start at $99 and include one free checked bag. Initial flights
from McKinney National Airport, beginning November 11, 2026, will connect to Las Vegas and four Florida destinations—Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Orlando, and Tampa. The Federal Aviation Administration recently granted McKinney National Airport its operating certificate, enabling scheduled commercial service.
Airport and Airline Officials Highlight Growth
Ken Carley, McKinney National Airport Director, said the new passenger terminal is nearing completion on schedule and is generating excitement among the North Texas community ahead of the holiday travel season. Avelo CEO Andrew Levy noted the strong response from local travelers and indicated that adding four routes and a third aircraft reinforces the airline’s commitment to Collin County and the
broader Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. Levy emphasized that low fares, McKinney’s smaller airport advantage, and Avelo’s on-time performance form a compelling proposition for passengers.
Budget Carrier Expands Amid Industry Challenges
Avelo Airlines, based in Houston, operates a low-cost model that differs from larger regional carriers like Southwest Airlines and American Airlines. The airline’s expansion at McKinney provides an additional budget option in a market experiencing rising airfares. This move occurs during a challenging period for low-cost carriers marked by increased fuel costs and the collapse of Spirit Airlines earlier in 2026.
Increased Options for Travelers at McKinney
The new routes and increased flight frequency at McKinney National Airport offer travelers convenient access to
key hubs and popular destinations without using larger airports like Dallas/Fort Worth International or Dallas Love Field. The combination of competitive pricing starting at $99 with a free checked bag and improved on-time performance enhances travel options for residents of Collin County and the Dallas/Fort Worth area.
