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American Airlines to add Phoenix service at Santa Maria Airport; officials urge community support
Summary
City and airport representatives celebrated the announcement that American Airlines will begin twice-daily flights between Santa Maria and Phoenix, providing new regional connections and encouraging local ridership to sustain the service.
City and airport representatives told the council on July 1 that American Airlines will begin new twice-daily service between Santa Maria and Phoenix, providing regional and national connections via Phoenix’s hub.
Jim Bray, a community representative on the airport’s airline recruitment team, outlined years of recruitment work and urged residents and local businesses to use the new service to keep it viable. He said American will operate two daily departures and two daily arrivals, offering global connections through Phoenix. Bray noted free parking at Santa Maria Airport and urged travelers and institutions (including Vandenberg Space Force Base contractors) to prioritize the local airport to sustain the route.
Why it matters: New scheduled service can increase local travel options, support tourism and business travel, and affect airport operations and parking demand. Airport advocates asked local users to choose Santa Maria for convenience and to support the new route.
Council and community reaction: Council members and the mayor praised the news; several council members noted free parking and encouraged residents to use the service. No formal action was required.
