Essential Air Service

Breeze has submitted a request to the U.S. Department of Transportation seeking approval to modify its current Essential Air Service (EAS) pattern.

The carrier expressed that the “prolonged timeline has impacted our ability to effectively allocate resources and plan our operations…”

The airport, located in southwestern New York state, has submitted a proposal to the Department of Transportation requesting reinstatement of EAS subsidies.

Duffy added that he understood “how meaningful” the program is to many communities but that he will be looking at changes.

Contour and Spirit announced on Monday a strategic partnership aimed at increasing air service options for underserved communities.

The Trump administration is setting its sights on the Essential Air Service program as part of its 2026 “skinny” budget proposal.

SkyWest plans to cut service between two Essential Air Service markets this summer. The regional carrier has flown the route since 2014.

Dulles has seen a slew of new airlines in recent months, including Breeze, Avelo, and Aeromexico’s recently resumed service to Mexico City.

Denver International Airport is slated to add a new airline to its mix. Twenty-seven carriers serve the Colorado airport.

Combined, the two carriers operate a fleet of around 40 Cessna Caravan aircraft to smaller markets within Hawaii and the U.S. mainland.