American Airlines has received tentative approval from the U.S. Department Of Transportation (DOT) to operate nonstop service from Washington Reagan National Airport (DCA) to San Antonio International Airport (SAT). Once regulators give the final seal of approval the flights will operate in each direction once a day.
Connecting An Underserved Route Pair
Washington Raegan National Airport is unique in the sense that it has restrictions that other airports do not. This is no surprise given the airports close proximity to the nations capital. The airport is slot restricted as well as perimeter restricted. The DOT prohibits airlines from operating routes out of Raegan National beyond 1,200 miles. Although there are limitations, the DOT does grant exemptions to airlines and particular route pairings on a case by case basis. Under the exemptions airlines operate beyond the perimeter to Los Angles, Seattle, Los Vegas and Devner to name a few. Recently congress granted the DOT five additional slot pairs beyond the 1,200 mile perimeter rule. American Airlines saw an opportunity to connect San Antonio to the Nations capitol, taking advantage of the perimeter exemption. “Today marks a significant milestone for San Antonio as we get one step closer to securing a nonstop flight between SAT and DCA,” said San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg. “This connectivity between San Antonio and our nation’s capital is long overdue and will benefit our community in many ways. I’m grateful for the unwavering support of our local leaders and the bipartisan backing of our congressional delegation. We are excited about the opportunities this will bring for economic growth, boosting both our business and military communities.” Speaking of the military, American Airlines is paying homage to San Antonio’s rich military history by using commemorative flight numbers. Flight 1718 commemorates the year San Antonio was founded, while Flight 1947 reflects the year the U.S. Air Force was established. Talk about a cleaver idea!