Stacey Tinsley, Bossier Press-Tribune
A celebration at Shreveport Regional Airport on Thursday morning marked more than just the opening of newly expanded boarding gates — it also brought major news for travelers across northwest Louisiana.
Airport officials, community leaders and supporters gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the newly renovated Gate 8, highlighting ongoing improvements aimed at enhancing the passenger experience and supporting future growth at the airport.
During the event, officials announced that United Airlines will begin daily nonstop service from Shreveport to Chicago O’Hare International Airport starting Oct. 25, 2026. The addition gives local travelers direct access to one of the nation’s busiest airline hubs and expands business and leisure travel opportunities throughout the region.
The Chicago announcement came alongside the return of Allegiant Air’s seasonal nonstop service to Nashville, Tennessee, which resumed Thursday from Gate 8. Airport leaders also announced that seasonal service to Destin, Florida, begins Friday, while nonstop flights to Orlando will transition to year-round service next week.
With the new additions, Shreveport Regional Airport now offers travelers 10 nonstop destinations.
Officials with the Regional Air Service Alliance said the Chicago route has been a long-term goal for the region and is expected to strengthen economic development opportunities by improving access to major industries and businesses throughout the Midwest.
Airport Director Larry Blackwell said Chicago has consistently ranked among the airport’s highest-demand destinations and will connect travelers directly to United Airlines’ largest hub.
In addition to expanded flight options, the airport introduced several new amenities during Thursday’s ceremony. Among them was the launch of the SHVip Visitor Pass program, allowing approved non-ticketed guests access beyond TSA checkpoints. The program will allow visitors to dine inside the terminal, meet arriving passengers at the gate and enjoy the airport’s public art displays.
Airport officials also unveiled a new private nursing station on the concourse as part of the gate expansion project.
Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux praised the airport’s continued progress and said the improvements reflect the region’s ongoing growth and investment in transportation infrastructure.
The ribbon cutting for Gates 1 and 8 represents another step forward in the airport’s broader modernization efforts as leaders continue working to expand air service and improve travel options for residents throughout the Ark-La-Tex.
Stacey Tinsley, Bossier Press-Tribune -A route map displayed during Thursday’s announcement at Shreveport Regional Airport highlights new nonstop service from Shreveport to Chicago O’Hare International Airport, which is scheduled to begin Oct. 25, 2026, on United Airlines.