Delta Airlines Expands in Austin as Competitors Struggle

Delta Airlines has reiterated its commitment to Texas by announcing the addition of five nonstop routes from Austin.

According to a news release, Delta will introduce daily nonstop service to Panama City, Fla., starting in March. The airline will also add nonstop service to Indianapolis; Memphis, Tenn.; San Francisco; and Tampa, Fla. Delta stated that these new routes will offer Austin customers "more options than ever before."

The expansion comes as Delta aims to stabilize its profits after a turbulent few weeks due to an IT meltdown in July, caused by Austin-based CrowdStrike, which led to mass delays and cancellations. The airline reportedly lost $500 million, and its stock price dropped almost 9%. Despite this setback, Delta remains the world's most valuable airline, with a market value of $34 billion as of July, and leads in brand value, revenue, total assets, and market capitalization according to Statistica.

American Airlines Cuts Austin Routes

In September, American Airlines revealed plans to eliminate four routes to and from Austin. This is the latest reduction after the airline cut 21 Austin flights in 2023 and five more in July. American Airlines stated: “American will continue to offer customers access to our comprehensive global network of more than 350 destinations with one-stop connections. We’re proactively reaching out to impacted customers and apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.”

Southwest Airlines Plans Seating Changes

In a July news release, Southwest Airlines announced plans to introduce assigned seating, citing customer preferences for longer flights. The airline also plans to offer premium seating options and red-eye flights.

Spirit and JetBlue Make Structural Adjustments

JetBlue has cut 20 routes and pulled out of five cities after its merger with Spirit Airlines was blocked. Meanwhile, Spirit Airlines has announced plans to offer premium seating, marking a shift in the budget airline market.

Beck Andrew Salgado covers trending topics in the Austin business ecosystem for the American-Statesman. To share additional tips or insights with Salgado, email Bsalgado@gannett.com.