Avelo Airlines is significantly reducing its flight schedule, cutting over 3,000 flights or 29% of its operations for the second quarter of 2026 compared to the same period last year. This decision follows a challenging year in 2025 and reflects a broader strategy to rationalize its network. Key factors driving this reduction include the airline’s exit from West Coast operations, the accelerated retirement of its Boeing 737-700 aircraft, and the closure of two East Coast crew bases.
Rationalizing Operations
In January, Avelo Airlines announced plans to “simplify its network amidst a 2026 balance sheet transformation.” Effective March 6, 2026, the airline will close its crew bases at both Wilmington International Airport (ILM) and Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU). While Avelo will continue to operate flights from these locations, the frequency will see a significant reduction.
The decision to reduce operations at RDU aligns with its evolving status as a focus city for Delta Air Lines. Competing against Breeze Airways, Avelo has faced challenges in maintaining its market share in this region. In a related move, the airline announced it will cease deportation flights for the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), impacting its operations in Phoenix-Mesa (AZA).
The revised operational strategy will leave Avelo with four primary bases heading into Q2 2026:
– New Haven Tweed, CT (HVN): 26 routes, serving the New York City and Connecticut market.
– Wilmington, DE (ILG): 11 routes, positioned as an alternative to the more congested Philadelphia International Airport (PHL).
– Lakeland Linder, FL (LAL): 9 routes, targeting the Orlando area.
– Concord-Padgett, NC (USA): 6 routes, providing access to the Charlotte metropolitan area.
Additionally, Avelo plans to establish a new base at Dallas-McKinney National Airport (TKI) later in 2026. This location is seen as a strategic move to tap into the expanding commercial operations in North Texas, where a new terminal is under construction.
Flight Reductions and Retirements
The upcoming schedule adjustments will result in Avelo operating 3,166 fewer flights in Q2 2026 than in the same quarter last year, with the most significant reductions occurring in the western United States. Key airports experiencing the largest cuts include:
– Hollywood Burbank Airport: down from 572 flights to none.
– Wilmington: reduced from 592 flights to 220.
– Sonoma County: down from 344 flights to none.
– Raleigh-Durham: a decrease from 524 flights to 200.
– Las Vegas: eliminated from the network entirely.
While some areas will experience reduced service, Avelo is increasing its flight frequency in select markets. Notably, both Lakeland and Concord will see over 200 additional flights compared to the previous year. Flights to and from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport are expected to more than double, reaching nearly 250 flights.
Avelo Airlines is also retiring its fleet of Boeing 737-700 aircraft, which has necessitated a reduction in overall capacity. Historically, the airline operated eight of these planes, but five have already been placed in storage. The last scheduled flight for the 737-700 will occur on February 24, 2026, from Raleigh-Durham to Tweed New Haven Airport.
In contrast, Avelo will continue utilizing its larger 737-800 aircraft, which accommodates 189 seats, allowing for improved seat-mile economics. The airline plans to operate 7,664 flights in Q2 2026 with these aircraft, down from over 10,000 a year earlier.
Looking ahead, Avelo has placed a significant order for up to 100 Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, with deliveries expected to start mid-2027. This transition aims to enhance the airline’s operational efficiency and expand its route network with aircraft better suited for its market demands.
As Avelo Airlines navigates these substantial changes, the focus remains on solidifying its core operations and preparing for future growth in a competitive aviation landscape.
