American Airlines has received tentative approval from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to launch a daily round-trip flight between San Antonio International Airport (SAT) and Washington Reagan National Airport (DCA). This nonstop service promises significant benefits for both cities and their surrounding regions.
Nate Gatten, American Airlines’ Executive Vice President, expressed gratitude to San Antonio, its airport, U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, and the Texas delegation for their support in making this route possible. “We also thank the DOT for recognizing the immense value this connection will bring to an underserved market,” Gatten stated. He emphasized the airline’s eagerness to finalize plans and begin offering the service, which will better connect San Antonio’s military community, “Military City USA,” with the nation’s capital.
San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg praised the DOT’s tentative approval, calling it a “significant milestone” for the city. He highlighted the importance of this connection, noting that it has been long overdue and will benefit the local economy, especially the business and military sectors. The mayor expressed appreciation for the bipartisan support from local leaders and Texas’ congressional delegation.
Jesus Saenz, San Antonio’s Director of Airports, echoed these sentiments, calling the new SAT-DCA route “historic and meaningful” for the city and South Texas. Saenz credited the strong partnership with American Airlines and the dedication of community leaders for helping to secure this vital connection. He promised more details about the flight’s launch soon.
San Antonio City Manager Erik Walsh added his thanks to the community’s business leaders and congressional delegation, especially Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz, along with Representatives Greg Casar, Joaquin Castro, Henry Cuellar, Tony Gonzales, and Chip Roy. He emphasized the profound impact this nonstop flight will have on the city and the broader region, noting the city’s commitment to maximizing its economic benefits.
The new route will enhance travel options and improve connectivity between San Antonio and Washington, D.C., building on the already strong services American Airlines offers at SAT. The airline plans to launch the nonstop service in the coming months.
American Airlines’ application for the route received widespread support, including more than 150 letters from local businesses, military organizations, and bipartisan members of the Texas Congressional delegation.
To mark the launch of this new route, American will assign special flight numbers in tribute to San Antonio’s history and military heritage. Flight 1718 honors the year San Antonio was founded, while Flight 1947 commemorates the year the U.S. Air Force was established.