Appleton Airport Expands Chicago Flights to Meet Business Travel Demand

Airport to offer 13 daily flights to O'Hare by summer, focusing on efficiency for business travelers.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Appleton International Airport (ATW) in Wisconsin will increase its daily flights to Chicago O'Hare International Airport from 10 to 13 by this summer, a 24% growth in seats, in order to meet rising demands for business travel. ATW Director Abe Weber said the airport has focused on providing a convenient and efficient experience for business travelers, including features like Express Park, Express Bags, and TSA PreCheck.

Why it matters

As a regional airport, ATW's ability to attract and accommodate business travelers is crucial for the local economy. The expansion of Chicago flights signals growing demand from companies and professionals who value the airport's speed and convenience compared to larger hubs.

The details

ATW currently offers nonstop flights to 23 destinations, the second most of any Wisconsin airport. The airport has prioritized serving business travelers, believing leisure travelers will follow. The 13 daily flights to O'Hare will provide ample options for business travelers commuting between Appleton and Chicago.

  • By this summer, ATW will offer 13 daily flights to Chicago O'Hare.
  • ATW projects a 24% growth in seats for the second half of 2026.

The players

Appleton International Airport (ATW)

A regional airport in Greenville, Wisconsin that serves business and leisure travelers with nonstop flights to 23 destinations, the second most of any Wisconsin airport.

Abe Weber

The Director of Appleton International Airport (ATW).

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What they’re saying

“We've always established our customer journey around the business traveler, understanding that they really do value the convenience and the speed that you can get through Appleton airport.”

— Abe Weber, Director, Appleton International Airport (ATW) (wtaq.com)

“Appleton was really built as a business traveler airport, until more recently seeing Allegiant come in, establish their base and then offering such great nonstop destinations that they provide.”

— Abe Weber, Director, Appleton International Airport (ATW) (wtaq.com)

What’s next

The airport plans to continue focusing on efficiency and convenience for business travelers as it expands its flight offerings.

The takeaway

Appleton International Airport's strategic focus on serving the needs of business travelers has allowed it to grow as a regional hub, demonstrating how smaller airports can thrive by catering to the specific demands of their core customer base.