Avelo Airlines becomes first commercial carrier at McKinney National Airport, bringing 100+ jobs to North Texas

Avelo Airlines just secured a historic deal as the first commercial carrier at McKinney National Airport, signaling major growth ahead for North Texas aviation. The Houston-based airline signed an official Airline Use and Lease Agreement this week, positioning the region for its third major commercial airport. With over 100 jobs promised and commercial flights expected in late 2026, this partnership marks a transformation for the entire area.

Historic Milestone for McKinney’s Commercial Aviation Future

McKinney National Airport (TKI) has been working toward commercial service for years, and Avelo’s commitment represents a watershed moment. The city signed the airline agreement December 16, 2025, cementing the partnership that will transform the airport into a major travel hub. Mayor Bill Cox emphasized the achievement in his statement to city officials and community leaders.

The 46,000-square-foot commercial terminal broke ground in July 2025 and is scheduled for completion in late 2026. Construction costs total approximately $79 million, with significant state support including a $14.8 million grant from the Texas Department of Transportation. This infrastructure investment demonstrates Texas’s commitment to expanding aviation capacity across the state.

Avelo’s decision to base operations at McKinney reflects confidence in the North Texas market. The airline already operates from over 50 airports worldwide, with routes to Boston, Chicago, Las Vegas, and Miami. The company previously issued a letter of intent in 2025, but the official agreement represents binding commitment.

Avelo Airlines Brings Affordable Option and Major Employment

The airline plans to launch with up to three daily flights using Boeing 737 aircraft with minimum capacity of 149 passengers per flight. Andrew Levy, founder and CEO of Avelo Airlines, emphasized the airline’s value proposition in his statement: affordable fares combined with reliable service at an easy-to-use airport facility.

More significantly, Levy confirmed the airline will create over 100 jobs across operations, ground services, flight crew, and administrative roles. These positions will support the airline’s daily operations while generating long-term employment for North Texas residents. The jobs span multiple skill levels, from flight attendants (with hiring already underway) to aircraft maintenance technicians and operations managers.

Flight attendant positions are being advertised with salary ranges between $34,000-$55,000 annually, with positions based in McKinney already open. The airline emphasizes competitive benefits and opportunities for growth within the organization. As a Texas-based company, Avelo expressed particular pride in expanding operations within the state.

Agreement Details and Airport Operations Structure

Aspect	Details
Agreement Duration	5 years with 5-year extension option
Facilities Included	Runways, taxiways, parking areas, gates, check-in counters, administrative office space
Initial Aircraft	Boeing 737 fleet (149+ passenger capacity)
Expected Daily Flights	Up to 3 daily flights at launch
Launch Timeline	Late 2026 (announcement of routes and dates pending)

The agreement specifies that Avelo will use exclusive office and administrative space while sharing non-exclusive areas like boarding gates and flight displays with any future carriers. This structure allows McKinney to attract additional airlines while maintaining operational efficiency. City officials expect other carriers to follow Avelo’s lead once commercial service proves successful.

The airport authority retained the ability to establish use fees and lease terms that align with industry standards. Both parties committed to supporting the terminal’s development and successful operation. Avelo will announce its specific nonstop destinations and launch date a few months prior to terminal opening, building anticipation within the North Texas community.

Economic Impact and Community Development Expectations

McKinney’s airport already contributes substantially to regional economics, generating approximately $299 million in annual economic impact according to city studies. The facility supports 410 hospitality and service industry jobs through visitor spending exceeding $21.7 million annually. Commercial service from Avelo is projected to amplify these figures significantly.

The addition of commercial passenger flights will attract business travelers, tourists, and visiting families to the McKinney area. Local hotels, restaurants, rental car services, and retail establishments expect increased customer traffic. The 46,000-square-foot terminal itself will create permanent operational jobs including security, customer service, maintenance, and administrative positions beyond Avelo’s direct hiring.

Regional leaders view this as strategic advantage for North Texas. Collin County residents have traditionally traveled to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) or Dallas Love Field, both 30+ miles away. McKinney’s location will reduce travel time and parking costs for residents while presenting an attractive alternative to crowded hub airports.

What Happens Next as McKinney Moves Toward Commercial Service Launch?

Construction of the commercial terminal continues through 2026, with the facility’s public dedication anticipated in late 2026. The city maintains an aggressive timeline to begin commercial operations immediately after terminal completion. Avelo will announce specific route information and launch dates a few months before opening, allowing the public and local businesses time to plan travel accordingly.

The agreement’s structure invites additional airline conversations. McKinney’s mayor and airport authority have indicated openness to attracting competing carriers once the terminal demonstrates success with Avelo. The 46,000-square-foot facility can expand to accommodate six gates (currently planned for four), suggesting capacity for multiple carriers from inception.

“We believe that our everyday low fares, convenient and reliable service, combined with an easy-to-use, small airport, is a combination the residents of McKinney and North Texas will enthusiastically embrace. In addition to providing more choices for residents and visitors to McKinney, we will also create well over 100 jobs in the region when we begin service.”

— Andrew Levy, Founder and CEO, Avelo Airlines

Job applications for McKinney-based positions are already being accepted on Avelo’s careers page and third-party aviation job boards. The airline emphasizes competitive pay, benefits, and advancement opportunities. Additional hiring announcements are expected as terminal completion nears and operational planning accelerates. The partnership represents vindication for McKinney’s long-term airport expansion vision while positioning North Texas for enhanced aviation connectivity and economic growth.

Sources

• Community Impact – Avelo Airlines signs on as 1st commercial service provider at McKinney National Airport
• Dallas Business Journal – Avelo to be first airline at McKinney airport
• WFAA – McKinney National Airport secures first airline partner