SHREVEPORT, La. — Shreveport Regional Airport unveiled newly expanded boarding gates Thursday and announced new nonstop air service to Chicago as part of broader efforts to grow passenger traffic and improve regional connectivity.
Airport officials and community leaders marked the opening of renovated Gates 1 and 8 during a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the airport.
During the event, officials announced that United Airlines will begin daily nonstop flights between Shreveport and O’Hare International Airport on Oct. 25, 2026. Airport leaders said the route will provide travelers with direct access to one of the nation’s largest airline hubs and expand business and leisure travel options for northwest Louisiana.
The announcement coincided with the return of Allegiant Air seasonal nonstop service to Nashville, Tennessee. Airport officials also said seasonal flights to Destin, Florida, begin Friday, while nonstop Orlando service will transition to year-round operations next week.
With the additions, the airport now offers 10 nonstop destinations.
Officials with the Regional Air Service Alliance said the Chicago route had been a long-term regional goal and is expected to support economic development by improving connections to businesses and industries across the Midwest.
Airport Director Larry Blackwell said Chicago has consistently ranked among the airport’s most requested destinations and noted the route will connect passengers directly to United Airlines’ largest hub.
The airport also introduced several passenger amenities during Thursday’s ceremony, including the SHVip Visitor Pass program, which will allow approved non-ticketed guests to access areas beyond TSA checkpoints. The program permits visitors to dine inside the terminal, meet arriving passengers at the gate and view the airport’s public art displays.
Officials also unveiled a new private nursing station on the concourse as part of the expansion project.
Tom Arceneaux said the airport improvements reflect continued regional investment in transportation infrastructure and economic growth.
Airport leaders said the gate expansion is part of broader modernization efforts aimed at increasing air service and improving travel options across the Ark-La-Tex region.
Stacey Tinsley of the Bossier Press-Tribune contributed to this report.