Delta Expands Austin Flights to Compete in Growing Market
Delta Air Lines is adding more flights at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in an effort to gain market share. The carrier plans to add 11 new nonstop flights from Austin in April, bringing their total peak-day flights to nearly 50. This expansion comes as rival American Airlines plans to cut 21 routes from the city. Austin's rapid population growth and investment from major companies like Apple and Tesla make it an attractive market for airlines.
Delta's Flight Additions
Delta Air Lines is increasing its presence at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport by adding 11 new nonstop flights starting in April. This move is part of Delta's strategy to gain market share in one of the fastest-growing airports in the US. The airline will now offer almost 50 peak-day flights from Austin, providing more options for travelers in the region.
The flight additions include new routes to Midland-Odessa and McAllen in Texas, as well as Raleigh-Durham in North Carolina, Nashville, and Cincinnati. Delta's decision to expand its route network in Austin comes shortly after rival American Airlines announced plans to cut 21 routes from the city, creating an opportunity for Delta to fill the gap.
Focus on Connecting Passengers
In addition to the new nonstop flights, Delta also plans to route connecting passengers through Austin. This marks a shift in strategy for the Atlanta-based carrier, as it will now use Austin as a connecting point to access its network. Eric Beck, managing director of network planning at Delta, stated that Texas has historically been an untapped market for the airline, and the additions of McAllen and Midland as connecting destinations will further strengthen their network in the region.
Delta's decision to expand in Austin was not solely driven by any particular company but rather by the overall growth and demand in the area. Austin has experienced rapid population growth in recent years and has attracted investments from major tech companies like Apple and Tesla. The city's strong business community and tourism attractions make it an appealing destination for both business and leisure travelers.
Austin's Growth Potential
Austin's airport has seen significant growth in passenger numbers, outpacing the broader US market since 2019. In 2020, the airport served over 7.1 million passengers, representing an 11% increase compared to 2019. This growth can be attributed to a combination of factors, including Austin's booming population, the presence of major tech companies, and the city's overall appeal as a travel destination.
Delta currently holds a market share of close to 14% in Austin, ranking third behind Southwest Airlines with a 40% share and American Airlines with a 22% share. By adding more flights and expanding its route network, Delta aims to capture a larger share of the Austin market and compete more effectively against its rivals in the region.
