American Airlines announced Wednesday that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has given tentative approval for the carrier to offer round-trip daily flights between San Antonio International Airport (SAT) and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA).
The nonstop service between SAT and DCA, highly coveted by airlines and airports across the U.S., will provide “unparalleled benefits for both cities and their respective regions,” the Fort Worth-based airline said in a statement.
American’s Executive Vice President Nate Gatten also thanked the federal agency for recognizing the value the route will bring to a previously unserved market. “We look forward to DOT issuing a final order so we can begin connecting more members of Military City USA with our nation’s capital and our industry-leading global network,” he stated.
For years, San Antonio officials have longed for a direct flight to DCA, after getting passed over in previous attempts. Then in May, Congress passed the Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization Bill, adding five new direct flight slots out of DCA for airports beyond its 1,250-mile perimeter rule.
Soon after, American announced plans to apply for one of the slots in partnership with San Antonio, submitting with its application more than 150 letters backing the nonstop service, including bipartisan members of the Texas Congressional delegation, mayors, military organizations, advocacy groups and chambers of commerce.
San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg called the announcement Wednesday a significant milestone for the city.
“This connectivity between San Antonio and our nation’s capital is long overdue and will benefit our community in many ways,” he stated. “We are excited about the opportunities this will bring for economic growth, boosting both our business and military communities.”
The city’s Director of Airports Jesus Saenz said the announcement is meaningful to San Antonio and surrounding communities, “a true reflection of our partnership with American Airlines along with the countless number of community leaders that have long deserved nonstop service” from SAT to DCA.
American plans to start the nonstop service in the coming months. More details about the launch of the flight would be released soon, Saenz said.
“We appreciate the long-time efforts of our community partners, business leaders and our congressional delegation to secure this nonstop flight, which will have a profound impact on San Antonio,” said San Antonio City Manager Erik Walsh. “We are ready to leverage this opportunity to its fullest and are committed to maximizing the economic benefits for the San Antonio region.”
American Airlines stated it will use distinct flight numbers for the air service, honoring the city’s history and the region’s strong ties to the military.
Flight 1718 commemorates the year San Antonio was founded and Flight 1947 reflects the year the U.S. Air Force was established.
