Skip to main content

American Airlines receives tentative approval for direct route from San Antonio to Washington, D.C.

American Airlines to add direct flight between Texas and Washington

San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio, Texas Matthew LeJune via Unsplash

Yesterday, American Airlines received tentative approval from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for a nonstop, round-trip flight between San Antonio, Texas, and Washington, D.C. The route will provide a quick trip to the capital, and the first flights will occur in the coming months. 

The new Texas to Washington route benefits both regions

Lafayette Park, Washington, D.C.
Lafayette Park, Washington, D.C. Pixabay

American Airlines’ new San Antonio to D.C. flight provides a corridor between the cities, bringing new economic and travel opportunities. During the application process, the airline submitted more than 150 letters of support from the San Antonio community, including military organizations, mayors, bipartisan members of the Texas Congressional Delegation, chambers of commerce, and advocacy groups.

Recommended Videos

American’s Executive Vice President Nate Gatten commented: “American would like to thank the city and community of San Antonio, the San Antonio International Airport, U.S. Senator Cruz and the entire Texas delegation for its strong partnership and support of this effort. I’d also like to thank DOT for recognizing the overwhelming value this route will bring to a previously unserved market. We look forward to DOT issuing a final order so we can begin connecting more members of Military City USA with our nation’s capital and our industry-leading global network.”

San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg said: “Today marks a significant milestone for San Antonio as we get one step closer to securing a nonstop flight between SAT and DCA. This connectivity between San Antonio and our nation’s capital is long overdue and will benefit our community in many ways. I’m grateful for the unwavering support of our local leaders and the bipartisan backing of our congressional delegation. We are excited about the opportunities this will bring for economic growth, boosting both our business and military communities.”

Mark Reif
Mark Reif is a writer from Stowe, Vermont. During the winter, he works as a snowboard coach and rides more than 100 days. The…
American Airlines adds curated menus inflight and throughout lounges
American Airlines introduces new menus in lounges and on flights
American Airlines new menu offerings

This month, American Airlines is introducing an array of new culinary offerings, both inflight and throughout its lounges. Also included is the option to use AAdvantage miles to purchase food and beverages. The new flavors are now available in select Admirals Club lounges and at 35,000 feet.
American’s new menus offer regional inspiration, interesting flavors
American Airlines Admirals Club breakfast breads American Airlines / American Airlines

American’s new food and beverage choices provide restaurant–quality recipes and flavor, from regionally-inspired options to premium spirits and mixers. Notable picks include an Argentina beef empanada in Dallas, build-your-own tacos in Miami, or edamame shrimp teriyaki in Nasvhille. In lounges, travelers can enjoy premium spirits and mixers, along with non-alcoholic choices. 

Read more
The Watergate Hotel’s $20,000 cherry blossom package promises an unforgettable D.C. experience
This package offers an incredible way to see the season's blooms
The Watergate Hotel

Every spring, Washington, D.C. bursts into shades of pink, drawing crowds from around the world eager to admire the city’s famous cherry blossoms. In 2024, the National Cherry Blossom Festival welcomed 1.6 million visitors, cementing its status as one of the country’s most beloved seasonal events.

This year, The Watergate Hotel is elevating the experience with its exclusive Blossom Drive package, starting at $20,000. Designed for those who want a luxurious, front-row seat to the city’s floral display, this high-end offering features private excursions, upscale accommodations, and specially curated activities.
What’s included in the package?

Read more
This Latin American airline now serves San Diego
Copa Airlines adds San Diego to its network
San Diego Bay

This June, Copa Airlines will begin service to San Diego, giving the SoCal city direct access to Latin America. The Star Alliance airline will fly between San Diego International Airport (SAN) and Tocumen International Airport (TCA) in Panama City, Panama. When the flights begin, Copa will be the only Latin American airline serving San Diego.
Copa Airlines connects San Diego to Costa Rica, Argentina, and more
San José, Costa Rica Eelco Böhtlingk / Unsplash

Service starts on June 25, with four weekly flights on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays aboard a Boeing 737. The new routes are the culmination of talks by airport executives and airlines at “Routes” events, where San Diego sought direct service to Latin America. Once landing at TCA, travelers can connect further to Mendoza, Argentina; Medellin, Colombia; and San Jose, Costa Rica. The PTY to SAN flight takes off at 1:16 p.m. local time and lands at 6:15 p.m. local time. The SAN to PTY trip embarks at 8:58 p.m. local time and arrives at 5:20 a.m. local time the following day. 

Read more