St. Joseph County Airport Authority Board President David Sage and Governor Eric J. Holcomb announced Jan. 18, that South Bend International Airport (SBN) is getting bigger with the addition of American Airlines. On June 7, 2018, twice-daily service will begin to two American hubs – Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT).
Flights will depart daily from SBN to DFW at 7:00 a.m. and 2:09 p.m. They will return to SBN daily from DFW at 4:13 p.m. and 9:53 p.m. Flights to CLT will leave SBN daily at 8:30 a.m. and 5:05 p.m. returning to South Bend each day at 1:25 p.m. and 9:40 p.m.
The flights will be operated by American Eagle using CRJ-700 regional jet aircraft with dual-class cabins and 64 seats.
“As our presence in the global economy continues to flourish, it’s important that Indiana is connected with the rest of the world,” Gov. Holcomb said. “Today’s news is a big win for the entire state, and we’re excited to buckle up with these two new flights in South Bend. More direct flights at Indiana’s regional airports enhance economic opportunities, livability and connectivity for the business community and Hoosier travelers.”
“Today’s announcement is many years in the making,” said SBN Executive Director Mike Daigle. “We are thrilled that American Airlines is returning to South Bend with not just one route, but two. Without the Governor’s initiatives to make air service development a priority, Indiana’s legislators, and the support of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, we would not be here today. This is a win for the South Bend region and a win for the State of Indiana."
In addition to Sage and Governor Holcomb, American Airlines Senior Consultant/Government Affairs Dale Morris, South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg, St. Joseph County Board of Commissioners President Andrew Kostielney, and South Bend Regional Chamber President Jeff Rea all took part in the announcement that took place at the airport this afternoon.