The city of McKinney is advancing its airport expansion project, which has been a topic of discussion since the 1970s. McKinney National Airport, initially opened as a general aviation facility in 1979, is now set to construct a passenger terminal to accommodate commercial flights. This development follows decades of attempts to introduce commercial services, with the city breaking ground on the new terminal in July 2025. The project is expected to enhance regional connectivity, providing an alternative to Dallas Love Field and Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport.
Funding for the terminal, estimated at over $60 million, includes contributions from state grants and local sales tax revenue bonds. Despite previous setbacks, including failed bond measures for airport improvements, recent studies indicate the airport generates significant economic impact, estimated at $299 million annually. The expansion is not without controversy, as environmental concerns have prompted legal challenges from local conservation groups. Flights from the new terminal are anticipated to commence in late 2026, marking a significant milestone in McKinney’s aviation history.
