United Airlines Plans Return to Central Wisconsin Airport with Daily Chicago Flights in 2026

United Airlines is set to resume service at Central Wisconsin Airport (CWA) starting May 21, 2026, offering three daily nonstop flights to Chicago O’Hare. This marks the airline's return after ceasing operations at CWA in January 2022 due to a pilot shortage. The flights will be operated using Bombardier CRJ-550 aircraft, featuring premium seating options and onboard Starlink Wi-Fi. United’s re-entry means that CWA will be served by three commercial airlines — United, American, and Delta — enhancing travel choices and convenience for the region. In a related expansion, United is also launching new daily routes from Chicago O’Hare to smaller markets including Santa Barbara, California, and several other cities, enabled by additional gate space at O’Hare. These moves are part of United’s strategy to strengthen its hub and connect more cities nationwide, with a record 212 destinations served from O’Hare next year.