A Shift in Airports
In an era of evolving airline economics and shifting travel dynamics, the fate of small regional airports hangs in the balance. A study by aviation consulting firm Ailevon Pacific reveals a concerning trend: major airlines like American, Delta, and United have bid farewell to 74 regional airports since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the reasons behind this phenomenon and its potential repercussions, all while shedding light on the perspective of industry experts and airport officials.
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The Vanishing Act of Passengers
The Eerie Experience at Williamsport Regional Airport
Walking into Pennsylvania’s Williamsport Regional Airport, one would expect the familiar sights of a bustling terminal: check-in desks, baggage carousels, and car rental counters. However, a key element is conspicuously absent—passengers. Since American Airlines departed in 2021, commercial airline flights have become a distant memory at Williamsport.
Understanding the Economics
The Economics of Shrinking Airplanes
A shortage of pilots is a contributing factor to the exodus of major airlines from regional airports. Still, changing airline economics further exacerbates the challenges faced by these airports. The once-profitable 50-seat jet now struggles due to rising labor, fuel, and maintenance costs. This situation disproportionately affects regional airports like Williamsport, leading experts to predict more small cities losing their airline service.
“The 50-seat jet today is just not economic as it was 10 years ago. Labor costs going up. Fuel costs going up. Maintenance costs going up. And it’s hard for that airplane at that seat size to be profitable,” said William Swelbar.
“In the West, the distances are greater, the terrain is more difficult, people need to fly. Whereas you look in the East, there’s lots of airports that are located in a certain geography. And the highway system is terrific. That’s why there will be more Williamsport.”
“The highway has become and will become the first access point to the air transportation grid going forward,” he added. “Not every community can support the trend toward larger airframes.”
Regional Variations
Geography Matters
A geographical divide emerges in this narrative. While the West grapples with vast distances and challenging terrain necessitating air travel, the East boasts numerous airports and an extensive highway system. This divide underscores why more airports, akin to Williamsport, might face a similar fate.
The Shift in Passenger Access
The Highway Takes the Lead
As regional airports increasingly lose their allure for passengers, a fundamental shift in how Americans embark on journeys is underway. The highway system is poised to become the primary gateway to the air transportation grid, as not every community can sustain larger airframes.
The Human Perspective
Frustration and Discontent
Richard Howell, the executive director at Williamsport Regional Airport, voices his frustration with legacy airlines’ actions. Despite substantial government aid during COVID-19, these airlines are abandoning rural America, which raises questions about their commitment to local communities.
Airlines’ Perspective
Airlines Respond
American Airlines responds by citing factors that influence their decisions, including customer demand and the regional pilot shortage. This insight offers a glimpse into the complex considerations that shape airline strategies.
Economic Repercussions Beyond the Terminal
Wider Economic Impact
The absence of air service not only affects the airport but also reverberates throughout the local economy. Businesses, including travel agencies and site consultants, grapple with the fallout, potentially hampering business growth and recruitment efforts.
Hope for the Future
A Glimmer of Hope
Amidst the challenges, there is optimism. Richard Howell believes that rejoining the Essential Air Service (EAS) program, which provides grants to airlines flying to challenging locations, could be the lifeline that Williamsport needs. While challenges loom large, Howell envisions a future where market sustainability is restored.
In a rapidly changing aviation landscape, regional airports face an uncertain future. The departure of legacy airlines from these airports reflects a complex interplay of economic, geographic, and industry factors. While the road ahead may be challenging, there is still hope for revitalization and a return to self-sustaining air travel. As the aviation industry continues to evolve, the fate of regional airports remains a compelling narrative to watch.
