This may sound like an isolated incident, but it's a growing trend. Legacy airlines, including American, Delta, and United, have bid farewell to a staggering 74 regional airports since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, as reported by aviation consultancy Ailevon Pacific
Several factors contribute to this transformation, with a shortage of pilots being one of them. Yet, a more profound shift in airline economics is looming, potentially rendering the challenges faced by regional airports insurmountable.
Several factors contribute to this transformation, with a shortage of pilots being one of them. Yet, a more profound shift in airline economics is looming, potentially rendering the challenges faced by regional airports insurmountable.
Long-time industry analyst William Swelbar elucidates, "The 50-seat jet, once economically viable a decade ago, is now struggling to stay afloat. Labor costs are on the rise, fuel expenses are soaring, and maintenance costs are escalating. It's becoming increasingly difficult for these smaller aircraft to turn a profit."