University of Illinois Willard Airport

Overview

Willard Airport (IATA: CMI, ICAO: KCMI) is a public airport located in Savoy, Illinois, serving the Champaign-Urbana metropolitan area. Owned and operated by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, the airport was named after the university's former president, Arthur Cutts Willard, who championed its development in the 1940s. Today, it functions as a regional hub primarily for general aviation, charter flights, and scheduled commercial service via American Eagle (to Chicago O'Hare and Dallas/Fort Worth) and United Express (to Chicago O'Hare). The airport is heavily used by university students, faculty, and staff, as well as business travelers visiting the Research Park and corporate headquarters in the area. Leisure travelers also use it for local tourism, especially during university events and sports seasons.

Location & Access

Willard Airport sits at 11 Airport Road in Savoy, a village about five miles south of downtown Champaign. Its location along U.S. Route 45 provides direct road access to nearby cities: Champaign and Urbana are a 10-15 minute drive north, while Decatur lies about 40 miles southwest and Bloomington-Normal about 50 miles northwest. Major highways include Interstate 57 (accessible via U.S. 45) and Interstate 72, which connects westward to Springfield. The Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (MTD) operates bus routes that stop near the terminal, offering a cost-effective option for connecting to campus and downtown areas. Ride-hailing services and taxis are readily available at the terminal curb. For those driving, the airport offers a free parking lot and a paid parking lot, both wheelchair-accessible. The terminal itself has a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking spots designated for disabled travelers. Bicycle racks are also available for cyclists.

Facilities

Despite its modest size, Willard Airport provides essential amenities for passenger comfort. The terminal building features clean, accessible restrooms with changing tables for families traveling with infants. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing travelers to work or browse. For those needing assistance, the entire facility—including parking, entrance, and restrooms—is wheelchair-accessible. While there are no full-service restaurants inside the terminal, vending machines offer snacks and beverages. Two parking options cater to different needs: a free parking lot for longer stays (ideal for budget-conscious travelers) and a paid lot closer to the terminal for shorter visits. Luggage carts are available for use. The airport does not operate 24/7; check with the airline for specific flight schedules, as the terminal opens typically a few hours before the first departure.

About the Region

Willard Airport sits at the heart of East-Central Illinois, a region defined by flat, fertile prairies that stretch as far as the eye can see. The area is a major agricultural producer, known for corn and soybeans, but it also harbors a surprising concentration of technology and research. Champaign-Urbana is home to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, a flagship public university consistently ranked among the top engineering and computer science schools in the world. The university's Research Park hosts over 100 companies, including a growing number of startups and Fortune 500 research labs. Cultural attractions include the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, the Spurlock Museum, and the Champaign County History Museum. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the nearby Kickapoo State Recreation Area, while foodies gravitate toward the local craft beer scene and farm-to-table restaurants. The region's flat terrain also makes it a hub for cycling and cross-country road trips.

Practical Information

Willard Airport is located at 11 Airport Road, Savoy, IL 61874. The general phone number is +1 217-244-8604. The official website, iflycu.com, provides flight status, parking information, and terminal maps. The airport is not open every day of the week—check with your airline for specific operating hours, as the terminal schedule aligns with flight activity. Peak traffic typically occurs around 2 PM and 3 PM, when multiple departures are scheduled. For ticketing and baggage, arrive at least 1.5 hours before domestic flights. The free parking lot is a popular choice for travelers seeking to save on costs, while the paid lot offers convenience for those with early or late flights. For connecting to the University of Illinois campus, the MTD bus Route 50 connects the airport to the Illinois Terminal in downtown Champaign.