Joliet Regional Airport

Joliet Regional Airport (JOT) serves as a critical general aviation facility for the southwest Chicago suburbs and greater Chicagoland region, supporting a diverse mix of owner-pilots, flight schools, and regional operators. Located in Joliet, Illinois, approximately 35 miles southwest of downtown Chicago, JOT positions itself strategically between the expanding suburbs and the growing southern Illinois region. With runway lengths of 3,600 and 5,000 feet, JOT accommodates single-engine aircraft through light twin-engine operations, supporting both training and growing business aviation needs. The surrounding Will County population exceeds 688,000, providing a substantial catchment area for aviation services and establishing JOT as a critical regional hub. The airport has become increasingly important as Chicago metropolitan area population growth extends southward along I-55 and I-80 corridors, with major residential development in communities including Plainfield, Bolingbrook, and surrounding areas. Flight schools operate multiple aircraft, supporting the growing demand for pilot training in an area experiencing suburban expansion and economic growth. For owner-pilots based in the southwest suburbs, JOT offers convenient access to major corporate parks, industrial centers, and distribution facilities along the I-55 corridor. The region's manufacturing, pharmaceutical, and logistics industries create robust demand for business aviation services. The airport's runway configuration and instrument approach capabilities (ILS equipped) support reliable operations in various weather conditions, enabling year-round operations. The fixed-base operator provides essential services including fuels, maintenance support, crew amenities, and ground transportation coordination. Multiple maintenance facilities serve the airport, supporting everything from routine maintenance through major inspections. The airport's growth trajectory includes facility improvements and runway enhancements signaling confidence in long-term regional expansion. For aircraft financing, JOT-based aircraft reflect the region's economic strength, growing population base, and increased aviation needs. The airport's expansion plans and infrastructure improvements signal confidence in long-term growth and economic vitality. Lenders evaluate JOT as an emerging growth market within the greater Chicago region, with strong fundamentals supporting aircraft valuations. The airport's position on the southwest corridor supports potential for increased utilization, charter operations, and corporate aviation services. Regional business aviation operators increasingly base aircraft at JOT, taking advantage of lower facility costs while maintaining excellent access to metropolitan area markets. The airport's excellent ground transportation through interstate access makes it attractive for corporate aviation operations seeking suburban alternatives to downtown airports.