American Airlines Applies for Nonstop Service Between San Antonio and Washington, D.C.

New Route Aims to Enhance Connectivity and Serve Growing Demand

American Airlines has officially submitted an application to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to launch daily nonstop flights between San Antonio International Airport (SAT) and Washington Reagan National Airport (DCA). This proposed service follows the recent Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization bill that allows for five new roundtrip flights from DCA.

Key Details of the New Service

Flight Schedule and Operations

American Airlines plans to operate the following flights:

• Flight 1718: Departs SAT at 6:35 a.m., arrives at DCA at 10:59 a.m.
• Flight 1947: Departs DCA at 7:45 p.m., arrives at SAT at 10:20 p.m.

Both flights will be serviced by Airbus A321 aircraft, featuring special flight numbers to honor San Antonio’s historical and military significance.

Strategic Importance

Growing Demand and Connectivity

San Antonio, the fastest-growing city in the U.S. and a major hub for military bases, currently lacks direct service to DCA. The new route aims to fill this gap, providing seamless connectivity for business, military, and leisure travelers.

Economic and Military Benefits

The nonstop service is expected to strengthen economic ties with Washington, D.C., and enhance collaboration with federal agencies and research institutions. It will also support the operational needs of San Antonio’s substantial military community.

Statements from Key Stakeholders

American Airlines

"American is proud to submit an application to provide the only nonstop service between San Antonio and Washington, D.C.," said Brian Znotins, American’s Senior Vice President of Network and Schedule Planning. "This new service will expand American’s industry-leading domestic network connecting customers to the places they want to visit most."

San Antonio Airport System

Jesus Saenz, Director of Airports for the San Antonio Airport System, highlighted the importance of the route for the region's connectivity and service options. "We’re grateful to American Airlines for their shared vision to improve connectivity and for helping us elevate our service options with a route that will be especially beneficial to our business and military communities."

Political Support

San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg and other local leaders have emphasized the route’s potential to boost economic prosperity and military efficiency. Senators Ted Cruz and John Cornyn, along with Congressman Joaquin Castro, expressed strong support for the route, underscoring its significance for San Antonio’s growth and connectivity.

Community Support and Next Steps

Broad Community Backing

American’s application is backed by over 150 letters of support from various stakeholders, including bipartisan policymakers, military organizations, and business leaders in San Antonio.

Approval Process

The application is part of a broader effort to enhance air travel options from DCA. American Airlines is prepared to adjust schedules as necessary to integrate the new service efficiently into the existing airspace operations in Washington, D.C.