McKinney, Texas, January 28, 2026
McKinney, Texas showcases notable business growth in the ice cream and aviation sectors. Abbott’s Frozen Custard has closed its local shop, while Blue Bell Ice Cream now offers drone deliveries. Meanwhile, McKinney National Airport has received significant funding for infrastructure expansion, and Avelo Airlines plans to establish a base there. These developments reflect McKinney’s dynamic economy and the continuing evolution of its local business landscape.
McKinney, Texas: Recent Business Developments in Ice Cream and Aviation
McKinney, Texas, has recently experienced notable business developments in both the ice cream and aviation sectors, reflecting the city’s dynamic economic landscape.
Ice Cream Industry Updates
Abbott’s Frozen Custard Closes McKinney Location
In December 2025, Abbott’s Frozen Custard closed its McKinney shop, marking the end of its Texas presence. The Rochester, New York-based franchise, known for its variety of frozen custard flavors, sundaes, and milkshakes, had opened the McKinney location in March 2024. As of now, Abbott’s has no active locations in Texas but is exploring opportunities to return to the Dallas-Fort Worth area in the future.
Blue Bell Ice Cream Delivered by Drone in Texas
In September 2025, Wing, a drone delivery company, partnered with Blue Bell to deliver their newest flavor, Classic Pecan Pie, to residents in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Eligible residents could order a free pint via the Wing app, with deliveries made directly to their backyards within 30 minutes. This initiative showcased the potential of drone technology in enhancing delivery services.
Aviation Industry Updates
McKinney National Airport Receives $14.8 Million Grant
In November 2025, McKinney National Airport was awarded a $14.8 million grant from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). The funding is designated for infrastructure projects supporting the introduction of commercial passenger services. The grant will contribute to the construction of a 46,000-square-foot terminal, initially with four gates and the capability to expand to six, along with other essential facilities.
Avelo Airlines to Establish Base at McKinney National Airport
In January 2026, Avelo Airlines announced plans to open a base at McKinney National Airport, marking the airline’s entry into the North Texas market. The budget carrier intends to launch commercial flights from the airport, with specific launch dates and destinations to be announced closer to the opening of the airport’s commercial terminal.
Development Near Expanding McKinney Airport Takes Off
Following the expansion plans for McKinney National Airport, real estate developers are actively pursuing projects in the vicinity. CapRock Partners, for instance, is planning to build a new industrial center near the airport, aiming to attract logistics providers, manufacturers, and distributors seeking modern facilities. This development aligns with the city’s growth and the anticipated economic impact of the airport’s expansion.
McKinney Airport Expansion Continues
Construction on the $72 million expansion of McKinney National Airport is progressing, with the project expected to be completed by late 2026. The expansion includes a 46,000-square-foot terminal with three gates, a parking lot with up to 1,500 spaces, and other supporting infrastructure. Despite previous rejections of similar expansion plans by voters, the city is moving forward with the project, anticipating significant economic benefits.
Additional Developments
Chicago-Based Buona and Rainbow Cone to Open in McKinney
In April 2024, Chicago-based companies Buona and The Original Rainbow Cone announced plans to expand into the Dallas-Fort Worth area, including McKinney. Buona is renowned for its Italian beef sandwiches, while The Original Rainbow Cone is famous for its unique five-flavor ice cream stack. The expansion aims to introduce these iconic Chicago eateries to the North Texas market.
Johnson’s Real Ice Cream Announces Expansion to Powell
In October 2024, Johnson’s Real Ice Cream, a family-owned business with over 70 years of history, announced plans to open a new location in Powell, Ohio, in early spring 2025. This expansion marks the company’s seventh store and the fourth to open since 2024, reflecting its growth and commitment to serving premium ice cream to the community.
Weather Forecast for McKinney, Texas
As of January 28, 2026, McKinney is experiencing clear skies with a temperature of 23°F (-5°C). The forecast for the upcoming days is as follows:
- Wednesday, January 28: Freezing fog in the morning; mostly sunny and chilly, High: 44°F (7°C), Low: 32°F (0°C)
- Thursday, January 29: Cool; areas of fog will reduce visibility in the morning with sun and some high clouds, then rather cloudy in the afternoon, High: 52°F (11°C), Low: 24°F (-4°C)
- Friday, January 30: Mostly cloudy and chilly, High: 46°F (8°C), Low: 15°F (-10°C)
- Saturday, January 31: Breezy in the morning; otherwise, mostly sunny and very cold, High: 29°F (-2°C), Low: 18°F (-8°C)
- Sunday, February 1: Mostly sunny and not as cold, High: 48°F (9°C), Low: 25°F (-4°C)
- Monday, February 2: Plenty of sunshine, High: 54°F (12°C), Low: 37°F (3°C)
- Tuesday, February 3: Cloudy and becoming rainy, High: 58°F (14°C), Low: 43°F (6°C)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the current status of Abbott’s Frozen Custard in McKinney?
In December 2025, Abbott’s Frozen Custard closed its McKinney shop, marking the end of its Texas presence. The Rochester, New York-based franchise, known for its variety of frozen custard flavors, sundaes, and milkshakes, had opened the McKinney location in March 2024. As of now, Abbott’s has no active locations in Texas but is exploring opportunities to return to the Dallas-Fort Worth area in the future.
What recent developments have occurred at McKinney National Airport?
In November 2025, McKinney National Airport was awarded a $14.8 million grant from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). The funding is designated for infrastructure projects supporting the introduction of commercial passenger services. The grant will contribute to the construction of a 46,000-square-foot terminal, initially with four gates and the capability to expand to six, along with other essential facilities.
Which airlines are planning to operate at McKinney National Airport?
In January 2026, Avelo Airlines announced plans to open a base at McKinney National Airport, marking the airline’s entry into the North Texas market. The budget carrier intends to launch commercial flights from the airport, with specific launch dates and destinations to be announced closer to the opening of the airport’s commercial terminal.
What is the current weather forecast for McKinney, Texas?
As of January 28, 2026, McKinney is experiencing clear skies with a temperature of 23°F (-5°C). The forecast for the upcoming days includes freezing fog in the morning on January 28, with mostly sunny and chilly conditions, and temperatures ranging from a low of 15°F (-10°C) to a high of 58°F (14°C) over the next week.
Key Features of Recent Business Developments in McKinney, Texas
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Abbott’s Frozen Custard Closure | Closed its McKinney location in December 2025; no active Texas locations currently. |
| Blue Bell Ice Cream Drone Delivery | Partnered with Wing for free drone deliveries of Classic Pecan Pie flavor in Dallas-Fort Worth area in September 2025. |
| McKinney National Airport Grant | Received a $14.8 million grant for commercial passenger services infrastructure in November 2025. |
| Avelo Airlines Base | Announced plans to open a base at McKinney National Airport in January 2026. |
| Real Estate Development Near Airport | CapRock Partners planning a new industrial center to support logistics and manufacturing near the airport. |
| McKinney Airport Expansion | $72 million expansion project includes a 46,000-square-foot terminal with up to six gates expected to complete by late 2026. |
| Chicago-based Restaurant Openings | Buona and The Original Rainbow Cone to open locations in McKinney, enhancing the local dining scene. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Parlor Doughnuts Closes Flower Mound Location, Moves to Dallas
Driver Dies After Fleeing Police in Grand Prairie Crash
Morgan Stanley Expands Footprint in Dallas with New Lease
Dallas Welcomes New Million-Dollar Neighborhood: ZIP Code 75230
Texas Leads U.S. in Tourism Growth, Surpassing Other States
Sunset Amphitheater Delay in McKinney: What’s Next?
Cold Front Brings Freeze to North Texas
Ashford Hospitality Trust Inc. Strengthens Financial Position
Dallas Love Field Airport Temporarily Evacuated Due to Fire Alarm
New Hotel Development Announced in Salt Lake City
Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
