Lincoln Airport: Growth, Community, and Economic Power

by Rachel Barth

Lincoln’s airport is a source of pride for the community it serves. More than just a place to catch a flight, Lincoln Airport (LNK) is bringing new jobs, attracting airlines, supporting the Huskers, and creating unique experiences for families. As it grows, the airport strengthens its role as a hometown asset that connects Lincoln to the world while investing in the city.

Breeze Airways announcement

Aviation Success: Expanding Service and Opportunities

This past year, LNK has built strong momentum. The airport welcomed SkyWest Airlines as a new tenant with a maintenance facility in its industrial park. The base can service multiple aircraft and will create at least 25 skilled maintenance jobs, along with additional support roles.

SkyWest, which operates United Airlines flights out of Lincoln, maintains nearly 500 regional aircraft nationwide. By adding Lincoln to its network of hubs, the company reinforces LNK’s reputation as a strategic aviation center in the Midwest.

Passenger numbers are also climbing. In the first quarter of 2025, LNK saw a 3 percent increase over the prior year, reaching the highest level in nearly a decade. Twenty percent of Lincoln-area passengers now fly from their hometown airport, up from 17 percent a year ago. That equals nearly 50 additional travelers per day, enough to fill a regional jet.

This growth benefits the community beyond convenience. With more passengers flying from Lincoln, fares have dropped. In early 2025, the average United fare out of LNK fell $20 each way, while fares at surrounding airports rose. Lower costs mean savings for residents and stronger connections for businesses.

Momentum continued in December when Breeze Airways launched nonstop service to Orlando. This new, affordable option expands leisure travel and positions the airport as a gateway for both business and vacation destinations. Attracting a leisure airline was a top priority in LNK’s strategic plan and was achieved ahead of schedule.

“With Breeze joining United, we are building a foundation for long-term growth and expanding the opportunities available to our travelers,” said Rachel Barth, Director of Air Service Development & Strategic Marketing.

A True Community Partner

Lincoln Airport’s success is not only measured in flights and fares. The airport has embraced its role as a community partner, showing that its mission extends beyond air travel.

UNL Graduate Week Sponsor

As the official airport of Husker Athletics, LNK proudly supports Nebraska teams across multiple sports. Special flights for football weekends highlight one of the ways the airport adds value to the Husker experience.

LNK also hosts events that unite the community. The annual Plane Pull, organized with the Cornhusker Chapter of Women in Aviation, brings together teams competing to pull a 20,000-pound aircraft while raising money to support opportunities for women and girls in aviation.

Another favorite is the free LNK Outdoor Movie Series, where families gather to watch films projected on a historic WWII hangar while enjoying food from local vendors. Youth aviation tours and outreach events further show how LNK is more than a transportation hub. It is a neighbor and gathering place that enriches civic life.

Driving Economic Impact

Behind the headlines of new flights and events is a larger story: Lincoln Airport’s economic power. As one of the region’s most significant assets, LNK generates more than $1.3 billion annually for the local economy.

Every job created through tenants like SkyWest, every visitor flying into Lincoln, and every traveler choosing to fly local adds to that total. By attracting airlines, supporting tourism, and providing infrastructure for businesses, the airport drives growth that extends far beyond its runways.

Competitive fares and efficient operations also keep more dollars in Lincoln rather than at neighboring airports. That spending supports restaurants, hotels, shops, and small businesses that thrive when residents and visitors choose LNK.

Lincoln Airport is more than runways and terminals. It is jobs for neighbors, opportunities for students, support for athletes, and a gateway that keeps the city connected and competitive. With each new flight, community event, and economic impact, LNK proves it belongs at the heart of Lincoln’s future. It is our airport, and one more reason to be proud to call Lincoln home.