Kearney, Neb. — A daily flight between Kearney Regional Airport and Chicago is again available.

The Kearney City Council approved an air service agreement with SkyWest Airlines, operating under the United Express brand, to add a daily flight between Kearney Regional Airport and Chicago O’Hare International Airport.

The round-trip flights began on April 30th.

SkyWest is using the CRJ200 aircraft which has a typical seating capacity of 50 passengers.

Terms of the agreement call for the service to continue through October 31, 2027.

Kearney to Chicago air service, originally launched by SkyWest (as United Express) in 2019, was cut in 2022.

The route was removed because of industry-wide issues, including a significant nationwide pilot shortage, along with the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on travel demand.

This new Chicago service is in addition to the existing daily flights to Denver International Airport (DEN). The Denver schedule will remain unchanged, ensuring travelers continue to have reliable access to United Airlines’ Denver hub while gaining additional connectivity through Chicago O’Hare.

“This expansion represents another exciting step forward for Kearney Regional Airport and the travelers we serve,” said Mayor Nikkila. “The additional flight strengthens our connection to one of the country’s busiest hubs, making travel more convenient for residents, businesses, and visitors.”