McKinney National Airport is preparing to enter the commercial passenger market with the completion of a new terminal project and the launch of scheduled service by Avelo Airlines. The airport’s $79 million commercial passenger terminal is targeted to begin operations in November, marking a significant shift from its prior role without scheduled airline service.
Avelo Airlines will be the first carrier to provide commercial passenger flights from McKinney National Airport, identified by the DTX code. The ultra-low-cost airline plans to initiate service on November 11, 2026, establishing a local base operation at the airfield. As part of this launch, Avelo is positioning two Boeing 737 aircraft at McKinney to support the new route structure.
The carrier’s initial schedule from McKinney includes nonstop flights to Las Vegas as well as four destinations in Florida. While specific Florida cities are not detailed, the service plan underscores Avelo’s intent to link McKinney directly with established leisure-oriented markets. This network design aligns with the airline’s low-cost model and reflects a focus on point-to-point connectivity.
The new commercial facility at McKinney National Airport comprises a 45,000-square-foot terminal building that will open with four gates. The project also includes expanded vehicle parking to accommodate additional passenger traffic and upgraded ramp and taxiway infrastructure intended to support commercial aircraft operations. These improvements are designed to enable the airport to function as a full-service commercial passenger facility from day one of Avelo’s launch.
Construction of the commercial terminal began in 2025, positioning McKinney to become the third commercial airport serving the broader Dallas-Fort Worth area. It will join Dallas Fort Worth International Airport and Dallas Love Field as part of the region’s commercial air service network, adding another option for passengers in the northern portion of the metro area.
Avelo Airlines, Inc. is described as an American ultra-low-cost airline headquartered in Houston, Texas. The company has evolved from its earlier operations as Casino Express Airlines and later Xtra Airways, during which it primarily flew charter services. Avelo transitioned to scheduled passenger operations and rebranded under its current name on April 8, 2021, reflecting a strategic move into the broader commercial airline market.
The combination of new terminal infrastructure and the introduction of Avelo’s scheduled service marks a notable change in McKinney National Airport’s role within the regional transportation system, with the facility moving from general aviation and non-scheduled activity into regular commercial passenger operations.
