The Decline of Regional Air Service
If you live in a rural area with a small, regional airport, you may have noticed a trend—airlines are pulling out of smaller markets. Since the start of the pandemic, legacy airlines have exited 74 regional airports across the U.S. In this post, we’ll explore the reasons behind this shift and discuss what the future holds for small airports.
Why Are Legacy Airlines Leaving Smaller Markets?
- Cost Is a Major Factor
Smaller airports typically rely on 50-seater regional jets, which come with high operating costs:
- Labor Costs: Staffing smaller flights is less cost-effective.
- Fuel and Maintenance: Operating costs per passenger are higher compared to larger jets.
Due to these expenses, airlines are prioritizing profitable routes, often leaving smaller markets behind. As a result, travelers have to drive long distances to larger airports, adding more time to their journeys.
- Pilot and Staffing Shortages
Pilot shortages disproportionately affects smaller markets, where pilot assignments are less appealing due to lower passenger volumes.
- Shift in Travel Behavior
Airlines are banking on improved highway infrastructure to fill the gap. They assume travelers will drive farther to reach major airports, and so far, this strategy seems effective. However, this poses economic challenges for small communities, affecting business travel, tourism, and local economies.
The Economic Impact on Small Communities
- Business Disruption: Companies struggle to host clients or attend meetings without nearby air service.
- Increased Travel Costs: Long drives to major airports mean extra expenses for fuel, lodging, and time.
- Regional Isolation: Limited air connectivity can stifle economic growth in remote areas.
What Is the Solution for Travelers When Airlines Leave Smaller Markets?
- Essential Air Services (EAS) Program
There is a possible solution in the form of the Essential Air Services (EAS) program, a government initiative that subsidizes flights to unprofitable destinations. This program aims to:
- Maintain Air Connectivity: Help small towns remain connected to the national air network.
- Support Local Economies: Help businesses and residents access essential air travel.
However, EAS has limitations:
- Limited Reach: Not all small airports qualify for subsidies.
- Larger Aircraft Challenges: The industry trend towards larger planes makes it difficult to justify servicing small markets with low passenger demand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Why can’t airlines use smaller planes for regional airports?
Ans. Operating costs for small planes are often higher per passenger, making them less profitable.
Q. How does the Essential Air Services (EAS) program work?
Ans. EAS provides financial subsidies to airlines, encouraging them to maintain routes to underserved areas.
Q. Will regional air service return to small airports?
Ans. Recovery depends on factors like pilot availability, fuel costs, and passenger demand.
Q. What can local communities do to attract air service?
Ans. Communities can request EAS funding, partner with regional carriers, or invest in airport infrastructure improvements.
Share Your Experience
Do you live in a small town affected by airline service cuts? How has this trend impacted your travel habits? Share your thoughts in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!
