LINCOLN, Neb. (Dec. 18, 2025) — Lincoln Airport (LNK) today announced that American Airlines will begin new nonstop service connecting Lincoln with Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) and Chicago O’Hare (ORD) starting June 2026, with seasonal winter service to Phoenix (PHX) launching in Winter 2026. The announcement marks a significant milestone in a year of unprecedented air service growth for the airport and the Lincoln region.
The new service follows extensive community engagement and market analysis. Nearly a year ago, Lincoln Airport conducted a comprehensive Business Travel Survey, receiving responses from nearly 350 local businesses. Results showed that approximately 40 percent of respondents regularly travel to the Dallas/Fort Worth market. Today, DFW is the third-largest air travel market for the Lincoln region, with nearly 150 passengers traveling between the two cities each day.
“This is a pivotal moment for Lincoln Airport and for our community,” said Chris Hove, Chair of the Lincoln Airport Authority Board. “American Airlines’ decision to serve Lincoln brings competition, affordability, and global connectivity back to our market. What excites me most is the economic impact this service will generate for our hometown — conservatively estimated at $75 million. This is a tremendous win for Lincoln and a strong vote of confidence in our region’s future.”
In addition to twice-daily service to Dallas/Fort Worth and daily service to Chicago O’Hare, American will introduce seasonal winter flights to Phoenix, signaling the airline’s intent to grow alongside the Lincoln market. Studies conducted by CMT, the airport’s air service development consultant, identified Phoenix as Lincoln’s top overall travel market. However, due to the lack of nonstop service, only about five percent of Lincoln-area travelers currently access Phoenix through LNK.
“Phoenix consistently ranks as one of the most requested destinations,” said Rachel Barth, Director of Air Service Development and Strategic Marketing. “Whether it’s winter travel, second-home ownership, conferences, or simply escaping the cold, the demand has always been there. American’s service finally allows Lincoln travelers to access that market directly.”
Barth added, “Lincoln travelers have been clear about what they want — more options, better pricing, and larger aircraft. American’s new service delivers all three while positioning LNK for long-term, sustainable growth. With American Airlines joining our air service portfolio, passengers traveling from Lincoln will now have access to 271 destinations worldwide.”
American Airlines will operate the new routes using CRJ-700 and CRJ-900 aircraft, offering First Class, Main Cabin Extra, and Main Cabin seating. Demand for premium seating has been a consistent priority identified through the airport’s engagement with Lincoln’s business community and frequent travelers.
“American is excited to now offer service to more cities than any other airline from Lincoln,” said Joseph Hughes, American’s Managing Director of Government Affairs. “With American adding Lincoln to our expanding global network, local residents have convenient one-stop access to more than 350 destinations around the world. We look forward to welcoming the community on our flights next summer.”
The announcement caps a year of strong momentum for Lincoln Airport. That progress has been driven by strategic planning, strong community demand, and a long-term commitment to expanding air service and economic opportunity. New service investments, enhanced connectivity, and increased competition are giving travelers more choice while keeping more passengers flying locally. This growth strengthens the airport’s role as a regional gateway, supports local businesses and workforce development, and reinforces the airport’s more than $1 billion annual economic impact on the community. Together, these gains reflect a clear trajectory of progress and position the airport for continued success in the years ahead.
This momentum also represents a significant rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic and years of reduced service. On July 4, 2025, Lincoln Airport operated eight daily departures on a single airline to two destinations, totaling approximately 400 available seats. By July 4, 2026, LNK is projected to offer 14 daily departures to five destinations on three airlines, with 724 departing seats—an 81 percent increase in capacity in just one year.
Senator Deb Fischer added, “I am pleased to see American Airlines announce new service at the Lincoln Airport, including year-round service to Dallas-Fort Worth and Chicago and seasonal service to Phoenix. This expansion underscores LNK as a driver of Nebraska’s economic growth and a vital transportation hub that connects Nebraskans to opportunity, commerce, and destinations nationwide.”
Additional details on schedules and fares will be announced by American Airlines. For the latest updates, visit www.lincolnairport.com.
