American Airlines has discontinued flights to three destinations this year, citing performance issues. The airline has stopped operating flights to Santa Maria, California; Tijuana, Mexico; and Doha, Qatar. According to aviation analytics company Cirium, the cuts have left Santa Maria without service from a major US legacy carrier, while Tijuana lost its only nonstop route operated by a US airline.
The airline has exited both destinations by cutting its routes from Phoenix to Santa Maria and Tijuana. At Santa Maria, Allegiant Air remains the only commercial airline serving the airport, with flights to Las Vegas. Meanwhile, Qatar Airways has taken over the Philadelphia-to-Doha route, restoring nonstop service between the two cities after American's departure.
American Airlines cited performance as the reason for the cancellation of service to Santa Maria. The airline operated service to Santa Maria under its American Eagle brand through a partnership with SkyWest Airlines, but flights to the airport did not meet performance expectations. SkyWest informed American that it would discontinue service as of May 7.
The airline has also permanently cut its Philadelphia-to-Doha route after previously suspending flights due to regional hostilities. The route failed to meet performance expectations. American Airlines routinely reviews its routes to ensure "optimal deployment of aircraft," a spokesperson said.
Aviation safety expert Steven Arroyo, a retired United Airlines captain, said route cancellations are a common part of the airline business. He encouraged travelers to monitor routes and ticket prices when planning upcoming trips and to consider backup arrangements, especially when traveling to the Middle East.
NTC Report coverage is based on reporting from the original publisher.
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