American Airlines has significantly expanded its presence at Santa Maria Airport by launching a new route from Phoenix, marking the first time in several years that this Californian airport has seen such connectivity. On October 15, 2023, American Eagle, the regional branch of American Airlines, initiated service to Santa Maria, effectively doubling the number of routes available from the airport. The addition of this route connects Santa Maria directly to Phoenix, complementing the existing service provided by Allegiant Air to Las Vegas.
The new service from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport is particularly noteworthy because it has not been offered before. Covering a distance of 429 nautical miles (approximately 795 kilometers) each way, American Eagle operates two daily flights using SkyWest’s 76-seat CRJ900 aircraft. The aircraft, adorned with SkyWest’s livery, will enable passengers from Santa Maria to connect to over 50 destinations across the United States and beyond.
Flight Schedule and Connectivity
The flight schedule includes a very early morning departure from Santa Maria at 05:03, which is set to be the earliest California-Phoenix service operated by American Eagle or American Airlines’ mainline. The next earliest flight departs at 06:00. The detailed schedule for mid-November is as follows:
– **Phoenix to Santa Maria:** Daily at 14:50
– **Santa Maria to Phoenix:** Daily at 05:03, with additional services on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays at 18:55 and Sundays at 21:37.
Santa Maria’s air traffic had previously relied on United Express, which offered routes to Los Angeles and San Francisco until the mid-2010s. The new American Eagle service represents a return to Phoenix for Santa Maria for the first time in three years and significantly enhances the airport’s connectivity options.
Market Impact and Future Prospects
The entry of American Eagle into Santa Maria’s market is expected to have a substantial impact on local air travel. Previously, Allegiant was the only carrier serving the airport, with its Las Vegas route operating twice weekly. While Allegiant has historically provided a significant share of flights from Santa Maria, American Airlines’ new service is positioned to offer much broader connectivity.
As of November 2023, American Airlines and its regional partners will operate flights to 17 airports within California, surpassing competitors such as Alaska Airlines, United, Delta, Southwest, and others. This expansion reflects a strategic move to enhance American Airlines’ footprint in the state.
Moreover, American Airlines is not just focusing on Santa Maria; the airline began service to Carlsbad, north of San Diego, in February 2023. This route marks a return for American Eagle, which previously operated flights to Los Angeles from Carlsbad in 1999.
The revitalization of services at Santa Maria and the introduction of new routes signal a proactive approach by American Airlines, aimed at improving access and connectivity for travelers in the region. As the airline continues to adapt and expand its network, passengers can look forward to greater travel options in the coming months.
