Regional jets (RJs) play an essential role in connecting smaller cities and providing convenient access to larger airports in the United States. In February 2025, over 7,000 daily regional jet flights are scheduled, accounting for 28% of total US aviation services. Domestically, this share increases to 30%, highlighting their critical role in short- and medium-haul routes. American Eagle leads as the largest operator of regional jets, with Envoy Air and PSA Airlines providing key services under capacity purchase agreements.
Current Status of Regional Jet Operations in the US
Regional jet services have rebounded to their highest levels in recent years, although they are still 25% below February 2020 levels, just before the pandemic’s impact. One significant trend is the decline in flights operated by single-class, 50-seat aircraft like the CRJ100, CRJ200, and Embraer 145. Only about 1,050 daily flights are scheduled on these jets, marking the lowest figure on record and a 75% drop compared to a decade ago. These smaller jets are known for poor fuel efficiency and limited comfort, and they now account for just 15% of all US regional jet flights.
The Shift Toward Larger Regional Jets
The use of larger regional jets, such as the Embraer E175 and Bombardier CRJ700/900, is increasing due to their better fuel efficiency, higher passenger capacity, and improved overall comfort. These jets also offer multiple travel classes, allowing airlines to boost revenue and enhance passenger satisfaction. As a result, the average number of seats per flight has risen to 68, compared to 64 in 2020 and 51 two decades ago.
This increase in seating capacity helps reduce seat-mile costs, enabling airlines to improve profitability while offering passengers a more comfortable travel experience.
US Regional Jet Routes and Key Airports
In February 2025, regional jets will operate on 1,665 routes and connect 1,460 airport pairs. These flights will serve nearly 400 airports across the country. The busiest airports for regional jet operations include:
- Chicago O’Hare (ORD)
- Charlotte Douglas (CLT)
- Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW)
- Washington Reagan (DCA)
- New York LaGuardia (LGA)
These airports act as major hubs, linking smaller cities to larger urban centers.
Flight Distances and the Longest Regional Jet Routes
On average, a regional jet flight in the US covers 401 nautical miles (743 km). While this figure has increased slightly in recent years, it remains lower than the 417 nautical miles (773 km) average from the past two decades.
In February, 94 routes will span at least 1,000 nautical miles (1,852 km). Among the longest routes:
| Distance (NM) | Route | Aircraft and Service | RJ Share |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1,401 (2,594 km) | Montreal to Denver | Air Canada Express CRJ900 | 11% |
| 1,381 (2,558 km) | San Francisco to Minneapolis | United Express E175 | 29% |
| 1,340 (2,482 km) | Portland to Anchorage | Alaska Airlines E175 | 49% |
| 1,337 (2,476 km) | San Francisco to Monterrey (Mexico) | United Express E175 | 100% |
| 1,330 (2,463 km) | Houston to Reno | United Express E175 | 100% |
| 1,315 (2,435 km) | Montreal to Dallas/Fort Worth | Air Canada Express E175 | 100% |
| 1,303 (2,413 km) | San Francisco to Kansas City | United Express E175 | 100% |
| 1,288 (2,385 km) | San Francisco to San Antonio | United Express E175 | 67% |
| 1,287 (2,384 km) | Portland to Kansas City | Alaska Airlines E175 | 100% |
| 1,271 (2,354 km) | Phoenix to Appleton | American Eagle E175 | 100% |
Key Observations:
- Many of the longest regional jet routes rely on the Embraer E175 due to its efficiency and range.
- The top international RJ route is from Montreal to Denver, while most of the longest routes connect US domestic destinations.
Regional jets remain a vital part of US aviation, especially in connecting smaller airports to major hubs and offering flexibility for short-haul routes. While the overall number of RJ flights is still below pre-pandemic levels, larger and more fuel-efficient jets are helping airlines optimize performance and profitability. The shift away from older, smaller aircraft like the CRJ200 and the focus on larger RJs like the Embraer E175 highlights the ongoing transformation of the regional aviation sector.
As regional aviation evolves, it will continue to play a key role in enhancing connectivity, reducing costs, and meeting the needs of both passengers and airlines.
