Two commercial airlines will soon be increasing their daily number of flights to established destinations from State College Regional Airport.
Beginning March 30, United Airlines will operate up to six flights most days to Chicago O’Hare International (up from the typical four currently offered), and four flights to Dulles International (up from the current three), according to a release from the airport on Tuesday.
Sometime later this year, American Airlines also will begin offering four daily flights to Philadelphia, an increase from the current three.
While flight schedules are adjusted seasonally, “the expanded service represents a significant increase in overall capacity,” airport officials said, adding approximately 20,000 seats compared to 2025 service levels.
“Increased flight availability is an important step forward for our community and regional economy,” Jason McMurtrie, assistant executive director of landside operations for the Centre County Airport Authority, said in a statement. “Expanding service beginning March 30 demonstrates confidence in our Central Pennsylvania market and reinforces our commitment to providing reliable, convenient air travel options for the residents, businesses and visitors we serve.”
The expanded service comes as State College Regional Airport sees growing demand and works with local partners on efforts to increase flight offerings.
In 2025, the airport had 148,196 enplanements, or passengers boarding aircrafts, marking the highest level of passenger activity since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and the third-most in the airport’s history.
The State College Air Service Alliance, launched last year, is working to expand commercial airline service at the airport, and initiative aimed at meeting that growing demand, keep tourism and travel dollars in the region and support economic growth. The partnership among the Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County, the Centre County Airport Authority, the Happy Valley Adventure Bureau and Penn State unifies and organizes efforts to attract new airline service to the airport.
A Fly State College Fund was introduced as part of the effort, with member organizations and local municipalities contributing the initial funding. The alliance is also encouraging businesses and individuals to support the fund, which will provide revenue guarantees, marketing support and financial incentives to attract and retain airlines and routes.
