Press Release: TakeOff North America heads to Northwest Arkansas in 2026

Dedicated to supporting the development and expansion of the North American domestic aviation market, TakeOff North America has become an integral forum for the small- and medium-sized airport air service development community within the region.

As the 2025 edition of the event drew to a close, it was announced that Northwest Arkansas had been chosen as the destination sponsor for the 2026 event.

Home to global companies such as Walmart, Tyson Foods, and J.B. Hunt, along with offices of Fortune 500 companies including Procter & Gamble, Coca-Cola, and Johnson & Johnson, Northwest Arkansas is known for its business-friendly environment. With a strong network of hotels, convention facilities and an exciting aviation story, the destination is well placed to host the event that accelerates domestic air connectivity across the U.S.

Centrally located in the U.S, the destination is served by Northwest Arkansas National Airport. Offering nonstop flights to 27 destinations, the airport has seen significant and sustainable growth in recent years. 2024 marked the busiest year for the airport on record with over 1.1 million enplanements.

Steven Small, Managing Director of Routes, said, "We're thrilled to bring the ninth edition of TakeOff North America to Northwest Arkansas—a destination that has demonstrated remarkable air service development momentum in recent years, with growth continuing to accelerate throughout this year."

Small continued: "Our partnership with Northwest Arkansas National Airport, Destination Rogers, Visit Bentonville, and Experience Fayetteville for the 2026 edition exemplifies the power of regional collaboration in driving sustainable air service development and economic prosperity. We're honoured to contribute to Northwest Arkansas's next chapter of growth and connectivity."

Aaron Burkes, Chief Executive Officer of XNA, said, “We’re honored to welcome TakeOff North America to Northwest Arkansas in 2026. This event celebrates collaboration and innovation in air service development, and we’re proud to showcase how our region’s growth and connectivity continue to strengthen year after year. Hosting TakeOff here reflects the momentum of both XNA and the entire Northwest Arkansas community.”