Springfield, IL  (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Beginning October 7, Springfield-area travelers will enjoy a more convenient flight schedule as American Airlines reinstates its early morning departure from Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport (SPI).

This enhanced schedule provides passengers earlier access to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), making it easier to connect to over 150 destinations across the U.S. and worldwide.

American Airlines is also upgrading this route with a 65-seat Embraer 170 jet, a 30% increase in capacity compared to the previous 50-seat aircraft. This larger jet also gives travelers the option of a premium cabin experience.

Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport was named Primary Airport of the Year by IDOT in 2020. A 2021 Economic Impact Study found the airport generates $370.8 million annually and supports 2,630 jobs. Major tenants include the Illinois Air National Guard’s 183rd Wing, StandardAero, IDOT’s Division of Aeronautics, LLCC’s Aviation Maintenance Training Center, and Stellar Aviation. Travelers benefit from the Passenger Service Center, Sky Club, and convenient flights with American Airlines to Chicago O’Hare, Allegiant to Punta Gorda, FL, and Breeze Airways to Orlando.