Air Wisconsin strategic realignment aims at EAS and charter flights

Air Wisconsin seems to be distancing itself from American Airlines. The regional air carrier announced Friday they are making a strategic realignment to focus on Essential Air Service Program (EAS) markets and expand its charter operations.

As part of this strategic shift, Air Wisconsin's capacity purchase agreement with American Airlines will conclude in April. The two airlines are transitioning into a codeshare and interline relationship. This will enable Air Wisconsin to focus on federally subsidized EAS routes to rural and underserved communities.

“These routes provide critical transportation links for communities that might otherwise lack access to air travel,” the company said in a press release.

Air Wisconsin said its fleet of sixty 50-seat CRJ-200 aircraft is well-suited to serve EAS markets, where smaller, efficient aircraft are in high demand. “The fleet provides the right capacity and operational flexibility to meet the unique needs of these markets,” the airline said.

Essential Air Service Bids

Air Wisconsin, Cape Air, and Contour recently made presentations to a Department of Transportation subcommittee that will select an airline to provide EAS flights.

According to a story published by Muddy Rivers News, Contour CEO Matt Chaifetz told the subcommittee that Air Wisconsin was “effectively just terminated” by American Airlines in December, which is why it was bidding for its first EAS contract.

NCAA Basketball Charter

Air Wisconsin has further diversified its operations with a recent focus on the charter market. Demand for its CRJ-200 aircraft has grown significantly, particularly among NCAA collegiate sports teams.

“The realignment of major athletic conferences has increased travel distances for teams, both during their regular season and post-season tournaments,” the company said. The NCAA season ends with a tournament in March.

Having recently retired all the remaining debt on its aircraft, Air Wisconsin embarks on this new direction with enhanced financial flexibility.

"This strategic shift underscores our adaptability and commitment to delivering reliable, customized air travel solutions where they are most needed," said Robert Binns, president & CEO of Air Wisconsin. "As we diversify into EAS and grow our charter operations, we remain committed to delivering safe, efficient, and quality service to every community and customer we serve."