Air Wisconsin, one of the United States’ oldest regional airlines, has announced a major strategic shift that would restructure its operations and long-standing connection 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 the transition, the two airlines will engage into a codeshare and interline arrangement, putting an end to Air Wisconsin’s distinctive role as an American Airlines regional affiliate.
The move, which is expected to have a significant impact on the regional aviation industry, comes after Air Wisconsin decided to focus its efforts on two key growth areas: the federally subsidized Essential Air Service (EAS) market and charter operations.
The strategic realignment focuses on the airline’s fleet of 50-seat CRJ-200 aircraft, which are in high demand due to their effectiveness on smaller, regional routes and charter flights.
Focusing on essential 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 a significant opportunity 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. With 50 seats and a low operating cost, the CRJ-200 is an extremely versatile aircraft for regional and specialized charter flights, including large group trips and business charters.
Air Wisconsin has flown the CRJ-200 for American under the American Eagle brand, serving numerous Midwest markets primarily from Chicago O’Hare International Airport. After the arrangement expires in April 2025, American will rely more on its completely owned regional subsidiaries, PSA Airlines, Piedmont Airlines, and Envoy Air, to provide flights from O’Hare.
Impact on American Airlines and regional network
According to PaxEx.Aero, the change will affect 47 markets covered through 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 its 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.
American Airlines announced in 2022 that Air Wisconsin would 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 announcement, Air Wisconsin had been operating openly 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.
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FAQ
Why is Air Wisconsin ending its partnership with American Airlines?
Air Wisconsin is ending its partnership with American Airlines as its current contract will expire in April 2025, and the airline has chosen not to renew it.
What routes will be affected by Air Wisconsin ending its flights for American Airlines?
Routes operated by Air Wisconsin under the American Eagle brand, primarily serving regional destinations, will be impacted after April 2025.
Will Air Wisconsin partner with another major airline after ending its contract with American Airlines?
As of now, there are no confirmed announcements about Air Wisconsin partnering with another major airline after April 2025.
What options do passengers have on routes previously served by Air Wisconsin?
American Airlines is expected to adjust its regional service by either reallocating flights to other regional carriers or introducing alternative routes to maintain service.
How long has Air Wisconsin flown for American Airlines?
Air Wisconsin has been operating flights for American Airlines under the American Eagle brand since 2017.
