WEST LAFAYETTE— In a significant step forward in its commitment to support Purdue University’s operational needs through improved travel options, the Board of Trustees on Friday (April 4) approved a two-year transportation services agreement with SkyWest Airlines for commercial air service.
Under the agreement, SkyWest Airlines will maintain at least one daily nonstop United Express round-trip flight between West Lafayette’s Purdue University Airport (LAF) and Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport (ORD). The flights will be onboard CRJ200 twin-engine jets, with a capacity for 50 passengers per flight.
The new United Express flights will allow travelers access to United Airlines’ global network, extensive infrastructure and impressive customer service. Travelers will have the ability to book flights directly via the United Airlines website, which provides a seamless, user-friendly booking process.
“We’re excited to bring this new United Express route to Purdue University Airport,” said Cody Thomas, managing director of market development for SkyWest Airlines. “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.”
The agreement is bolstered by the August opening of the Amelia Earhart Terminal at Purdue Airport. The approximately 9,400-square-foot building will provide increased capacity and advanced facilities to accommodate the expanded flight offerings and larger aircraft.
Travelers will be able to begin booking the new United Express flights late on Thursday (April 10), with the first flight scheduled for Aug. 5, the same day the Amelia Earhart Terminal is scheduled to open.
“We’re pleased to partner with SkyWest and excited for the enhancements they’ll provide for Purdue and the surrounding community,” said Jessica Robertson, Purdue 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.”
Commercial flights at Purdue Airport further Purdue President Mung Chiang’s ABCD service to the community, the state and the country, in which the “A” stands for “airport” and aims to provide the university’s students, faculty, staff and families, as well as residents and businesses in Greater Lafayette, with easier, faster connections.
