DUBUQUE, Iowa — Denver Air Connection ceased operations at Dubuque Regional Airport (DBQ) today, January 15, 2026, marking the end of daily commercial passenger flights from the city.

The Dubuque City Council voted on December 15, 2025, to terminate the service agreement with Denver Air Connection, effective this date. The airline agreed to the termination. Airport Director Todd Dalsing stated in a press release: “Denver Air Connection has been a terrific partner… But we exhausted the available federal funds and local contributions to the revenue guarantee and Denver Air cannot operate the service at a loss.”

Service began in November 2024 with daily flights to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) using 50-seat Embraer ERJ-145 jets. It was supported by a local minimum revenue guarantee after American Airlines ended service in 2022. Despite growth in ridership since May 2025, loads fell short of the 80% needed for sustainability.

The final scheduled morning departure from Dubuque was canceled due to mechanical issues, leaving passengers to seek alternatives.

Passengers with direct bookings to/from Chicago after this morning’s flight are eligible for refunds or can contact Denver Air at 866-373-8513. Airport staff are available at 563-589-4128 for questions.

Dubuque Regional Airport now has no scheduled commercial service. Officials plan to explore alternative funding and carriers. Mayor Brad Cavanagh noted: “This is not the end of commercial air service in Dubuque. We are regrouping…”