Earlier Takeoff Set for Dubuque Regional Airport’s Morning Flight

Starting November 1st, travelers flying from Dubuque Regional Airport to Chicago O’Hare International Airport will see a slight change to their morning schedule. Denver Air Connection will move its departure time from 7:50 AM to 7:15 AM, arriving at O’Hare at 8:20 AM instead of 8:55 AM.

The 35-minute shift is designed to give passengers more flexibility and better access to connecting flights out of Chicago. With the earlier arrival, travelers will now have access to more than 200 potential connections within four hours of arrival, helping them reach more destinations by early afternoon. Airport officials say the adjustment was made in direct response to customer feedback, especially from business travelers looking for earlier arrival times and smoother travel out of Dubuque.

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“While moving the morning flight up by 35 minutes may seem like a minor change, this is a significant improvement. It responds to requests from business travelers, in particular, and it offers all travelers even more connecting flights and earlier arrivals to destinations beyond O’Hare. We’re very pleased Denver Air could make this change.”

-Brad Cavanagh, Dubuque Mayor and DBQ Air Board Chairman

Denver Air Connection began offering service between Dubuque and O’Hare in November 2024, restoring a key air travel link for the region. In May 2025, the airline introduced a morning departure and evening return schedule, which quickly proved popular among passengers. A recent survey showed 97 percent of travelers rated their experience at Dubuque Regional Airport as good or excellent.

The airport continues to encourage travelers to take advantage of the $100 Airfare Rebate Program, which was recently extended through October 31st, 2025. The rebate remains available to both business and leisure travelers who purchase round-trip tickets within the eligible dates.

“We welcome this change. From an operations standpoint, an even earlier arrival to O’Hare is preferred. This gives our passengers additional time to make their connections and reach their destination sooner.”

-Todd Dalsing, Dubuque Regional Airport Director

For flight bookings, Denver Air Connection partners with American Airlines and United Airlines, allowing passengers to book through those carriers, through major travel sites, or directly at FlyDBQ.com.