Dubuque Council Approves $2.4M in Tax Funding to Keep Flights to Chicago

The Dubuque City Council voted to spend $2.4 million in local tax dollars to keep flights from Dubuque Regional Airport running through June 2026. These latest reports come from the Telegraph Herald and the Dubuque City Council’s October 6 agenda and minutes. Additionally, the city hopes local businesses will add another $750,000 to help sustain daily flights to Chicago. Flights officially returned in November 2024 after a two-year break following the departure of Avelo Airlines.

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Denver Air Connection operates the flights and partners with United and American Airlines for direct connections. The city guarantees the airline a minimum revenue, and with ticket sales slower than expected and federal grant funding expired, taxpayers are already covering $1.6 million in guaranteed revenue through the end of 2025. The additional subsidy would cover the first six months of 2026. The council also approved $100,000 for marketing and advertising the flights, since higher passenger numbers will reduce the city’s revenue guarantee.

Only one council member voted against the plan, pointing out that the airport serves a broader region and that federal rules for the Essential Air Service program, which supports small rural airports, need updating. The program currently helps more than 150 airports, but is closed to new participants. Additionally, federal budget limitations and the current government shutdown make expansion unlikely. The council's majority decision reflects the city’s determination to maintain air service despite financial pressure and regulatory limitations.

The Dubuque City Council also handled appointments to city boards and commissions. Ron Vaughn was nominated to the Airport Commission for a four-year term. In addition, as reported yesterday, Denver Air will adjust its Chicago flight schedule starting November 1st, moving the departure up to 7:15 AM with an arrival at O’Hare at 8:20 AM, aimed at better serving business travelers.