Avelo Airlines is expanding its service with two new routes from Delaware to major cities in the United States. The airline plans to connect Wilmington Airport with Atlanta and Chicago starting in 2026. This announcement is a significant development for local travelers, enhancing transportation options from the region.
Avelo Airlines to Launch New Routes from Delaware in 2026
In a recent press release, Avelo Airlines revealed its plans to add routes from Wilmington Airport to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta and O’Hare International Airport in Chicago. The Atlanta route will commence on February 12, 2026, offering five flights a week: Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
Starting on March 12, 2026, Avelo will provide four flights per week to Chicago, operating on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays. With these additions, Wilmington Airport will have a total of 14 nonstop routes, showcasing Avelo’s rapid growth since its inception at this airport in 2023.
Current Operations and Achievements
Since launching service from Wilmington, Avelo Airlines has successfully transported over 750,000 customers on more than 5,500 flights. This growth reflects the airline’s increasing popularity among Delaware residents. To support its expansion, Avelo will introduce a new Boeing 737 aircraft in March 2026.
Controversy Surrounding Avelo Airlines
While the airline has successfully drawn local passengers, it faces criticism for its partnership with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Avelo has been involved in charter flights transporting detained immigrants from Mesa, Arizona. This collaboration has resulted in protests outside Wilmington Airport, with demonstrators urging the public to reconsider using Avelo’s services.
- New Routes: Atlanta and Chicago
- Start Dates:
- Atlanta: February 12, 2026
- Chicago: March 12, 2026
- Flight Frequency:
- Atlanta: 5 flights per week
- Chicago: 4 flights per week
- Safety Concerns: Protests against ICE partnership
Local leaders, including Wilmington City Council members, have voiced their concerns. City Councilmember Shané Darby highlighted the potential ethical implications of supporting an airline linked with ICE operations. She emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in public spending.
Avelo’s expansion reflects its commitment to improving transportation options for residents of Delaware, even as it navigates complex issues related to its operations. As travel resumes and demand grows, Avelo Airlines stands at a critical juncture in its development.
