Air Wisconsin, one of the oldest regional airlines in the US, plans to restructure its operations and relationship with American Airlines.
The regional airline plans to execute a capacity purchase agreement (CPA) with American Airlines in April 2025 as part of a revised business model, according to a statement.
Following this transition, the two carriers will enter into a codeshare and interline arrangement, bringing an end to Air Wisconsin’s distinctive role as an American Airlines regional affiliate.
Air Wisconsin’s choice to prioritize the federally subsidized Essential Air Service (EAS) market and charter operations is expected to significantly impact regional aviation. This strategic realignment focuses on the airline’s 50-seat CRJ-200 aircraft, which are in strong demand for smaller regional and charter trips.
Focusing on crucial air service.
Air Wisconsin’s CRJ-200s are ideal for the Essential Air Service program, which provides air connectivity to underserved and rural regions around the United States. These areas frequently lack access to major airports or commercial travel choices, making EAS flights an important lifeline for people.
“This strategic shift underscores our adaptability and commitment to delivering reliable, customized air travel solutions where they are most needed,” stated Robert Binns, President and CEO of Air Wisconsin, in a statement. “As we diversify into EAS and grow our charter operations, we remain committed to delivering safe, efficient, and quality service to every community and customer we serve.”
Charter sector opportunities.
In addition to EAS services, Air Wisconsin sees significant potential in the charter industry. The airline’s CRJ-200 planes are in high demand, particularly among NCAA collegiate sports teams.
Following the restructuring of major athletic conferences, many teams will travel longer distances for both regular-season games and post-season tournaments. Air Wisconsin’s aircraft is well-suited to meet the increasing need for customized travel choices in the college athletics business, as it can handle smaller groups and teams.
Air Wisconsin’s fleet of 60 CRJ-200 planes is perfect for these kinds of missions. The CRJ-200 is a versatile aircraft with 50 seats and low operating costs, making it ideal for regional and specialized charter flights, such as large group trips or corporate charters.
Air Wisconsin has operated the CRJ-200 for American under the American Eagle brand, flying to various Midwest cities mostly from Chicago O’Hare International Airport.
After the partnership ends in April 2025, American will rely more on its completely owned regional operations, PSA Airlines, Piedmont Airlines, and Envoy Air, to provide flights from O’Hare.
Impact on American Airlines’ regional network
PaxEx.Aero reports that the decision will impact 47 markets covered under a capacity purchase agreement arrangement.According to Airline Geeks, American’s final CRJ-200 flight, flight 6102, is scheduled to depart from Chicago O’Hare at 20:40 local time and arrive in Kalamazoo, Michigan, at 22:45.
According to their website, Air Wisconsin has been a regional airline since 1965. Since its humble beginnings, the carrier has rapidly expanded to service numerous destinations throughout the Midwest and East Coast.
In 2022, American Airlines announced that Air Wisconsin will join the American Eagle family. American Eagle will begin using Air Wisconsin’s aircraft for regional flights in March of the following year. Prior to the news, Air Wisconsin had been operating as United Express since 2018.
Regional Airlines
With numerous regional airlines operating across its network, American Airlines operates its regional flights under the American Eagle brand. Piedmont Airlines, PSA Airlines, and Envoy Air are wholly owned subsidiaries of American.
These regional airlines are critical to American Airlines’ vast network since they connect smaller cities to major hubs such as Philadelphia, Dallas/Fort Worth, and Chicago.
American, Delta, United, and Alaska are four major airlines in the United States that provide regional flights through a network of partner companies.