With its 2018 schedule, American Airlines launched 52 new non-stop flights and expanded service on multiple routes.
“Our 2018 schedule opens up so many new possibilities for destinations,” said Vasu Raja, vice president of network and schedule planning. “We are making it easier and more convenient for our customers to fly on American to the places that matter to them around the world — from serving smaller cities more frequently to adding service to destinations we haven’t flown before.”
Following last year’s announcements of new international service to Budapest (BUD), Prague (PRG) and Reykjavik (KEF), American Airlines also introduced several new domestic routes beginning June 7.
New services include three routes from Philadelphia (PHL) to Fort Wayne, Ind. (FWA); Oklahoma City (OKC); and Pensacola (PNS). American added service from both Charlotte (CLT) and Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) to Panama City (ECP) and to South Bend, Ind. (SBN), and it launched a route connecting Chicago (ORD) and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pa. (AVP).
In addition, a new shuttle between Chicago and New York LaGuardia (LGA) began April 4. Designed for frequent business travelers, the shuttle offers hourly departures between the two business hubs, aiming to provide flexibility and time savings with amenities such as complimentary beer and wine in economy class.
“When you fly frequently for work, anything that makes the regular commute more comfortable is important,” said Alison Taylor, senior vice president of global sales and distribution. “That’s why we’re pleased to offer valuable time-saving opportunities with our Shuttle, including a convenient and consistent schedule and extended check-in times for you and your bag.”
These schedule additions reflect American Airlines’ focus on improving connectivity and convenience for both leisure and business passengers. By increasing frequency to smaller markets and introducing direct links between key cities, the carrier is responding to customer demand for more point-to-point options and streamlined travel. The expanded offerings include a mix of short regional hops and longer domestic services, intended to simplify itineraries and reduce travel times for many travelers.
Business travelers stand to benefit from the shuttle’s predictable timetable and enhanced airport procedures, while leisure travelers gain access to more direct routes to coastal destinations and regional gateways. Together, the new services and expanded frequencies aim to better align the airline’s network with customer needs across domestic and international markets.