Delta Airlines Cancels All Flights to Midland Amid Route Shakeup

Delta Airlines is cutting all flights to Midland, Texas, this November. The airline will no longer serve Midland International Air and Space Port. The decision ends Delta’s only route connecting Austin and Midland.

This move follows a year of low passenger numbers. Delta is adjusting its network to better match travel demand. The change affects business and leisure travelers in the Permian Basin region.

Delta Airlines Cancels Flights to Midland After Low Demand

Delta Airlines confirmed it will stop all services to Midland starting November. The route, which began in April 2024, struggled to attract passengers. According to Department of Transportation data, flights ran with less than 60% of seats filled.

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Delta CEO Edward Bastian said the airline is focusing on profitable routes. The airline wants to use its planes more efficiently. This decision is part of a wider plan to optimize their U.S. flight network.

Many experts say the route may have helped Delta maintain gate access in Austin. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is growing fast, and Delta is investing there heavily.

As per Reuters, Delta’s Q2 earnings were strong. Still, the airline is prioritizing high-demand destinations. Routes with poor performance, like Austin-Midland, are being dropped.

What This Means for Travelers and Midland Airport

Midland leaders expressed disappointment but remain hopeful. They plan to bring in other airlines. The airport serves a vital energy sector and has steady business travel.

Midland is investing in terminal upgrades and better services. These improvements aim to attract new carriers. Officials believe the airport still has strong potential.

Southwest Airlines will remain at Midland with one daily flight to Austin. The airline controls about half of all traffic at the airport. It is now Midland’s largest carrier.

Southwest offers five nonstop routes from the airport. Its continued presence gives local travelers some stability. The city hopes to build on this with new airline partners.

Delta Expands in Austin While Leaving Midland

Though Delta is leaving Midland, it is growing fast in Austin. The airline will begin international flights to Cancun and Cabo San Lucas in December. These routes target leisure travelers.

Delta will also open a flight attendant base in Austin this October. The company sees Austin as a long-term investment. It is focusing on high-yield routes with more revenue per passenger.

Regional routes like Austin-Midland often struggle post-pandemic. Airlines are focusing on routes that fill more seats and bring higher profits.

Delta Airlines cancels flights to Midland due to low demand. Southwest remains the main carrier at the airport. Midland plans upgrades to attract new airlines.

Must Know (FAQ Section)

Why did Delta Airlines cancel Midland flights?

Delta canceled the route due to low passenger numbers and poor performance.

Will other airlines replace Delta in Midland?

Midland officials are working to bring in new airlines. Talks are ongoing.

What flights are still available from Midland?

Southwest Airlines still offers daily nonstop service to Austin and other cities.

Is Delta expanding elsewhere?

Yes. Delta is adding international flights from Austin to Mexico and building a new crew base.

What is the impact on Midland’s economy?

The city remains hopeful due to strong business travel linked to the energy sector.

References: Reuters, Department of Transportation, City of Midland, Delta Airlines public statements