Airline to Operate At Least One Daily Flight From Lafayette to Chicago

In a move aimed at improving travel for Purdue University and the Greater Lafayette area, the Purdue Board of Trustees has approved a two-year transportation agreement with SkyWest Airlines. Beginning August 5, SkyWest will operate one daily nonstop United Express round-trip flight between Purdue University Airport (LAF) and Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), using 50-seat CRJ200 regional jets.

“We’re pleased to partner with SkyWest and excited for the enhancements they’ll provide for Purdue and the surrounding community,” stated Jessica Robertson, Purdue’s associate vice president for auxiliary services. “The new agreement not only addresses immediate operational needs but also positions the university for future growth in flight options and destinations.”

This agreement provides Purdue travelers direct access to United Airlines’ global network, all booked through the familiar United website. It’s a notable step up from current options, especially considering the capacity boost over Southern Airways Express’s Cessna Caravans.

The flights will launch in tandem with the opening of the new Amelia Earhart Terminal at LAF. The terminal spans about 9,400 square feet and is designed to handle the increased traffic from larger aircraft like the CRJ200.

Booking for United Express flights opens April 10, with daily operations starting August 5. The new route is expected to streamline travel for Purdue faculty, staff, students, and the local business community, offering a direct gateway to the hundreds of destinations available through Chicago.

“We’re excited to bring this new United Express route to Purdue University Airport,” commented Cody Thomas, managing director of market development for SkyWest. “We know how important it is for travelers to access quality air service, and the new flights will allow them to more easily connect to the hundreds of destinations on United’s global network.”

Purdue Airport previously had commercial air service from the 1950s until 2004, peaking at around 45,000 enplanements in 1979. After a long hiatus, flights resumed in 2024 via Southern Airways Express. The addition of SkyWest and United Express in 2025 marks a clear upgrade in aircraft size, speed, and passenger comfort.

FMI: www.purdue.edu, www.skywest.com