The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has awarded slots to American, Delta, Alaska, & United for new and increasing capacity on nonstop routes from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) beyond the airport’s 1,250-mile perimeter rule. These newly allocated slots provide travelers with expanded access to the nation’s capital while enhancing competition among airlines. Here’s a breakdown of the awarded routes and their implications for travelers and regional economies:

American Airlines: San Antonio (SAT) to Washington, D.C. (DCA)

American Airlines will launch the only nonstop service between San Antonio (SAT) and Washington National (DCA) starting in March 2025. This route addresses a long-standing gap for SAT, which is the fastest-growing city in the U.S. and home to a significant military presence.

American will operate the route with Airbus A321 aircraft, offering daily service. The flights are tailored to support military, business, and leisure travelers, promising time savings compared to connecting flights. Local leaders have hailed this development as a game-changer for San Antonio’s connectivity and economic growth.

Schedule:

• Flight 1718: Departs SAT at 6:35 a.m., arrives DCA at 10:41 a.m.
• Flight 1947: Departs DCA at 7:45 p.m., arrives SAT at 10:43 p.m.

Delta Air Lines: Seattle (SEA) to Washington, D.C. (DCA)

Delta Air Lines will introduce nonstop service between Seattle (SEA) and DCA starting March 9, 2025. This new route expands Delta’s presence in the nation’s capital, allowing the airline to serve all three of its western U.S. hubs from DCA.

The flights will be operated with Delta’s Airbus A321neo aircraft, emphasizing fuel efficiency and premium amenities such as free Wi-Fi for SkyMiles members and an extensive in-flight entertainment selection. Delta’s entry into this market is expected to increase competition on the SEA-DCA route, which is currently served only by Alaska Airlines.

Schedule:

• Departs SEA at 7:23 a.m., arrives DCA at 3:29 p.m. starting March 9th.
• Departs DCA at 4:40 p.m., arrives SEA at 7:41 p.m. starting March 9th.

Alaska Airlines: San Diego (SAN) to Washington, D.C. (DCA)

Alaska Airlines will offer new nonstop service between San Diego (SAN) and DCA, becoming the sole carrier on this route. This addition strengthens Alaska’s commitment to San Diego, a key market with significant defense, biotech, and innovation sectors.

With this route, Alaska will operate 40 nonstop destinations from SAN, solidifying its presence in the region. The service will utilize Alaska’s Boeing 737 aircraft and is positioned to enhance connectivity for business and leisure travelers.

Schedule:

• Departs SAN at 2:10 p.m., arrives DCA at 9:55 p.m. starting March 17th.
• Departs DCA at 8:00 a.m., arrives SAN at 10:35 a.m. starting March 18th.

United Airlines: San Francisco (SFO) to Washington, D.C. (DCA)

United Airlines has secured an additional frequency on its San Francisco (SFO) to DCA route, competing directly with Alaska Airlines on this high-demand West Coast corridor. This service, operated on Boeing 737 aircraft, provides customers with more flexibility and travel options between the two major cities.

Analysis

Seeing additional flights to DCA is a great thing as it increases competition and access. Underserved cities like San Antonio is a win for both the airline and passengers. When I flew from SAT, passengers were often wanting more flights. It’s now up to the communities to keep those flights.