University of Illinois Willard Airport

CMI KCMI Savoy, Illinois Elevation: 755 ft

University of Illinois Willard Airport is the primary commercial gateway to Champaign-Urbana and the University of Illinois. Located 8 miles south of campus, CMI offers a 8,100-foot runway accommodating most heavy jets and many VIP-configured airliners. The airport serves the University of Illinois (Fighting Illini athletics), the Research Park tech corridor, and the agricultural heartland of east central Illinois. Dedicated FBO facilities provide private terminals. Estimated charter rates to Champaign via CMI: light jets from $4,000 per hour, mid-size jets from $5,500 per hour, heavy jets from $8,500 per hour.

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Transworld Jets Insider Tip

The University of Illinois draws significant aviation traffic for Illini football and basketball games, homecoming weekend, and graduation. The Research Park adjacent to campus hosts tech startups and Fortune 500 R&D offices. Champaign-Urbana is also a strategic midpoint between Chicago and Indianapolis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can heavy jets land at Champaign?

Yes. Willard Airport's 8,100-foot runway accommodates most heavy jets and many VIP-configured airliners including the Boeing BBJ and Airbus ACJ.

When is Champaign busiest?

University of Illinois Illini home football games, homecoming, and graduation weekends are the busiest periods. Big Ten conference rivalry games draw the heaviest private aviation traffic.