MCKINNEY, Texas — Fast-growing budget carrier Avelo Airlines will expand its footprint at McKinney National Airport this December, introducing nonstop passenger service to four major U.S. destinations just weeks after launching commercial operations at the North Texas airfield.

The Houston-based airline announced Thursday that it will connect McKinney (DTX) with Atlanta, Denver, Nashville, and New Orleans. To support the expanded network, Avelo plans to station a third Boeing 737-800 aircraft at the airport.

The announcement coincided with a critical regulatory milestone: the Federal Aviation Administration granted McKinney National its official commercial operating certificate on Thursday.

Route Schedules and Launch Dates

The new services roll out across two consecutive days in mid-December:

• Atlanta (ATL) & Denver (DEN): Service begins Dec. 16, operating four times weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
• Nashville (BNA) & New Orleans (MSY): Service begins Dec. 17, operating twice weekly on Thursdays and Sundays.

Introductory one-way tickets start at $99 and include a complimentary checked bag. Seats are already available for purchase on the carrier’s website.

Preparing for Commercial Passenger Service

The December additions complement Avelo’s inaugural flight slate, scheduled to launch on Nov. 11 with nonstop service to Las Vegas and four destinations across Florida.

Construction crews are putting the final touches on McKinney’s brand-new passenger terminal, designed to provide Collin County travelers an alternative to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and Dallas Love Field.

“Our brand-new passenger terminal is just weeks away from completion, running on schedule, and building strong enthusiasm throughout the North Texas community,” said Ken Carley, director of McKinney National Airport. “Travelers clearly value the convenience of departing from their local airport during the busy holiday season and beyond.”

A Budget Alternative in North Texas

Avelo’s rapid growth provides regional travelers with a low-cost counterweight to legacy carriers American Airlines and Southwest Airlines. While ultra-low-cost airlines unbundle services—charging separately for seat assignments and carry-on luggage—Avelo aims to capture price-sensitive travelers at a time when nationwide airfares remain elevated following industry-wide turbulence and the liquidation of Spirit Airlines earlier this year.

Avelo leadership noted that robust advance reservations prompted the carrier to accelerate its growth plan in Collin County.

“The initial response from North Texas travelers has been remarkable, as reflected in our strong advance bookings,” said Andrew Levy, founder and CEO of Avelo Airlines. “Stationing a third aircraft and introducing four new markets underscores our deep commitment to Collin County. Combining low fares, an efficient small-airport experience, and dependable on-time reliability creates an unbeatable option for travelers in one of the nation’s fastest-expanding regions.”