Purdue University Airport’s New Regional Jet Service: What You Need to Know
A New Chapter for Purdue Airport’s Commercial Air Service
The Purdue University Airport in Lafayette, Indiana, is undergoing a significant transition in its commercial air service, marking a pivotal moment for regional air travel in the area. After Southern Airways Express successfully reintroduced passenger service last year—ending a two-decade hiatus by operating multiple daily turboprop flights between Purdue and Chicago O’Hare—there is a change in the pipeline that could elevate the quality and convenience of flights for travelers.
Transition from Turboprop to Regional Jet Service
Starting August 5, 2025, Southern Airways will cease its operations at Purdue Airport on the same day SkyWest Airlines, operating as United Express, begins its new regional jet service. SkyWest will operate a CRJ-200 regional jet, a 50-seat twin-engine aircraft, on the Purdue to O’Hare route. This upgrade from the smaller turboprops to a regional jet promises slightly faster flight times, though given the short distance, the difference on the clock will be modest.
Opening of the New Amelia Earhart Terminal
Coinciding with SkyWest’s launch, Purdue Airport will open the new Amelia Earhart Terminal, an $11.8 million investment featuring a modern 9,400-square-foot facility designed to provide improved passenger amenities. The terminal includes a spacious hold room beyond security, restrooms on both sides of the checkpoint, self-serve food and beverage options, parking nearby, and enhanced accessibility features. This terminal is intended to accommodate larger aircraft and increased passenger volume, signaling Purdue’s commitment to expanding commercial flight service.
Financial Backing and Service Viability
While Purdue University invested $5 million to support and guarantee revenue for the initial return of commercial service, the ongoing viability and success of commercial passenger flights here remain under evaluation. Southern Airways was a smaller commuter operator, and their exit reflects the difficulties in sustaining such service in this market. SkyWest, affiliated with United Airlines, plans to operate one round trip flight per day, making scheduling more limited but linking passengers directly to one of the nation’s largest international hubs at O’Hare. This connection offers extensive onward travel options, vital for both business and leisure travelers.
Challenges and Considerations for Travelers
However, flying once daily may pose planning constraints for some travelers, especially if timing demands an overnight stay near O’Hare, which might reduce the convenience advantage over driving and parking. The cost efficiency of regional jet service amid fluctuating jet fuel prices is another factor Purdue and the community will watch closely.
Looking Ahead: Monitoring Success and Community Impact
The transition from Southern Airways’ turboprop service to SkyWest’s regional jets marks a new chapter for Purdue University Airport. The enhanced jet service through a major airline partner, combined with improved terminal facilities, aims to better serve the Greater Lafayette area’s travel needs and spur community and economic development. Yet, the long-term success will depend on passenger demand and operational sustainability, which stakeholders will monitor carefully after service begins in August.
Conclusion: Renewed Air Connectivity for Greater Lafayette
For residents and travelers in the Greater Lafayette area, this is promising news that brings renewed air connectivity closer to home and more straightforward access to a global international travel network.
This change underscores the dynamic nature of regional air travel and the efforts by local institutions to expand transportation options in an ever-changing airline industry.